Can apes play pretend? Scientists use an imaginary tea party to find out

A new study explores whether apes possess the capacity for imagination, a trait previously considered uniquely human. Researchers conducted an experiment involving Kanzi, a bonobo at the Ape Initiative in Des Moines, Iowa, who is known for his communication skills using graphic symbols. The experiment aimed to determine if Kanzi could engage in pretend play, specifically an imaginary tea party. The findings suggest that Kanzi may indeed have the ability to act as if something is real while understanding it is not, indicating that the roots of imagination may not be exclusive to humans. This research could provide insights into the evolution of creativity and cognitive abilities.

A new study suggests bonobos, like children, possess the ability to engage in make-believe. Researchers at the University of St Andrews and Johns Hopkins University conducted experiments with Kanzi, a bonobo, to test his understanding of pretend scenarios. Kanzi was able to identify the location of imaginary liquids and objects, indicating an understanding of pretense. The study, published in the journal Science, involved pretending to fill cups with an empty jug and asking Kanzi to identify the "full" cup. Kanzi's success rate was significantly higher than chance, suggesting he understood the concept of imaginary liquids. Researchers believe this ability may extend back to the common ancestor of humans and bonobos, dating back 6 to 9 million years.

A new study published in *Science* in February 2026 indicates that apes possess the capacity for make-believe, a trait previously considered uniquely human. Researchers at the Ape Initiative in Des Moines, Iowa, studied Kanzi, a bonobo known for his understanding of spoken English, to investigate ape imagination. Scientists conducted experiments where they engaged in pretend play, such as "pouring" imaginary juice, with Kanzi. The findings suggest that apes can distinguish between reality and imagination and consider multiple perspectives simultaneously. This research implies that the cognitive potential for imagination may extend to our common evolutionary ancestors, revealing a greater richness in ape minds than previously understood.