Tool‐use by free‐ranging chimpanzees: the extent of diversity

Most populations of free‐ranging chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes, Pongidae) across Africa use tools. This is equally true of wild and released populations and of all three geographical races. The few that do not use tools have yet to be thoroughly studied, but tool‐use seems species‐typical. No patterns of tool‐use are universal, although most function to facilitate subsistence. Even in preying on termites (Macrotermitinae, especially Macrotermes spp.) a variety of tools and techniques are shown, and many cross‐populational contrasts emerge. Regional differences exist, such as nut‐cracking with hammer‐and‐anvil being confined to the far western sub‐species. Continuing comparative study is needed.