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Baboons catch the yawns also
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It is one of the most familiar mysteries of nature, so much so that it seems almost trivial. But a new study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that the contagious yawn might be be an important reflection of our very humanity. Or should that be baboonery?
Italian researchers observed yawning behavior in the Gelada (Theropithecus gelada)--a highly social herbivorous primate native to the Ethiopian highlands. The baboons were found to be more likey to "catch" a yawn from a close social acquaintence than a stranger. These findings lend support to a theory that contagious yawns are a reflection of the capacity for empathy, in both humans and our close primate relatives.
Like humans, baboons can yawn for several reasons. In addition to being a sign fatigue, yawns are also used as social display. Mutual yawning may help to reinforce social bonds and synchronize behavior. While the origins of human empathy are not yet entirely understood, studies such as these shed light on how social behavior evolved among our primate ancestors. If you feel like yawning after reading this you can credit your empathetic nature.
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