Funky gibbons studied for language clues

Scientists are fathoming out the secret language of funky gibbons. The Asian apes are renowned for their loud musical songs, but also produce distinctive soft calls known as “hoos”.

Research has shown they use these whispers to communicate specific information about events such as foraging, meeting neighbours, or types of predator. Scientists believe they could provide valuable clues to the evolution of human speech.

Lead researcher Dr Esther Clarke, from the University of Durham, said: “These animals are extraordinarily vocal creatures and give us the rare opportunity to study the evolution of complex vocal communication in a non-human primate.