Monkeys Ride Deer in a Unique Friendship
the thing is: a way to introduce an important fact, reason, or explanation
On the Japanese island of Yakushima, monkeys, and deer have created a surprising partnership. The monkeys ride on the deer’s backs like a human on a horse. In exchange for the ride, they groom the deer’s fur. The deer also get the leftover fruit the monkey’s drop. Scientists say this cooperation is an example of “co-culture,” where different species share and learn behaviors.
Professor Cedric Sueur said, “I think there are a lot of species showing co-culture. But the thing is that we never thought in this way.” This isn’t the only example of co-culture in nature. In Yellowstone Park, ravens follow wolves to find leftover meat. Scientists believe that when animals share behaviors like this, they evolve faster. Studying these relationships could give clues about how early humans shared and developed culture.
Sample sentences
I love traveling, but the thing is I’m afraid of flying.
I enjoy cooking, but the thing is it takes so much time to clean up afterward.
I really want to adopt a pet. The thing is, I’m not sure I have the time to take care of it properly.
Read More:
This deer-riding monkey could rewrite the story of evolution. Here’s why
