Asian Elephants Demonstrate Tool Use at Berlin Zoo

Mary, an Asian elephant at Berlin Zoo, has gained attention for her remarkable ability to shower herself using a hose, demonstrating sophisticated tool use that researchers describe as 'goal-directed behavior.' Observed by scientists from Humboldt University, Mary employs various techniques to control the hose, even using a lasso-like grip to reach different body parts. However, her showering sessions have drawn the envy of a younger elephant, Anchali, who attempts to sabotage Mary’s bathing by manipulating the hose to disrupt the water flow. This behavior raises questions about social dynamics among elephants and their cognitive abilities, showing that tool use is not limited to humans. Researchers believe that this intuitive understanding of the hose may stem from its similarity to their trunks, highlighting elephants' intelligence in using complex tools. The study, published in Current Biology, challenges previous notions regarding animal behavior and opens avenues for further exploration of tool use across species.