The Chimpcam Project

Image for The Chimpcam ProjectNot currently available on BBC iPlayer

Natural World, 2009-2010 Episode 11 of 14

Duration: 1 hour

Wildlife documentary. How does a chimpanzee see the world? A research project at Edinburgh Zoo is designed to answer just that question in an innovative new way - by training chimps to use video touch screens and giving them a special chimp-proof camera.

How will they react to tools which in evolutionary terms are a few million years ahead of them? As chimp specialist Betsy Herrelko finds out, trying to communicate with chimps using video technology has its trials and tribulations as power struggles, bites and fights get in the way of the hairy chimp directors. However, by the end of the programme we are privileged to see the world's first film shot by chimpanzees.

  • Wildlife Finder

    Wildlife Finder

    Explore the BBC nature archive and discover more about the chimpanzees featured in this programme.

    BBC Wildlife Finder: Chimpanzee

  • Photo: Liberius the chimp

    Photo: Liberius the chimp

    Liberius the chimp has been trained to use video touch screens as part of a research project at Edinburgh Zoo.

  • Photo: Betsy Herrelko and the Keepers at Edinburgh Zoo

    Photo: Betsy Herrelko and the Keepers at Edinburgh Zoo

    Form left to right: Jo Richardson (head keeper), Sarah Romer, Betsy Herrelko & Claire Gresswell

  • Photo: Chimps

    Photo: Chimps

    Chimps Kilimi, Lindsey and Ricky enjoy a frozen fruit treat.

Credits

Series Editor
Tim Martin
Narrator
Stuart McQuarrie
Participant
Betsy Herrelko
Producer
John Capener

Broadcasts

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