Feeding is chiefly an individual activity, however, with fruit, leaves, seeds, bark, honey, insects, and eggs forming the primary diet. In addition, chimps are capable of a variety of facial expressions due to large and flexible, almost prehensile, lips. The canine teeth are very prominent. Their most common means of getting around is a four-footed walk with the hind legs slightly flexed, the body tipped forward, and the backs of the fingers placed on the ground. Chimpanzees are capable of walking on their hind legs, but only with the toes turned inward.
Chimpanzees have opposable thumbs used for climbing, picking fruits, and catching insects.
These adaptable animals are known for making and using simple tools such as twigs for eating termites, and rocks for cracking nuts. AT THE ZOO Chimpanzees may be seen at the Triple Grotto, between the Primate Discovery Center and the Elephant House. Inc. All rights reserved.