Horizon Season 1977 Episode 3 The Ape That Stood Up

In the third episode of Horizon season 1977 titled "The Ape That Stood Up", viewers are taken through the latest groundbreaking research in the field of primate studies. This episode showcases the studies conducted by renowned primatologist Prof. John Crook, and his team of researchers on the behavioral patterns of baboons.

The show begins by highlighting the uniqueness of baboons in the animal kingdom. According to Prof. Crook, baboons are one of the few species of primates that are highly social and engage in complex social interactions. Their social hierarchy, which is led by a dominant male called the 'alpha male', had been the subject of numerous studies. However, in this episode, Prof. Crook and his team attempt to unravel a more interesting aspect of baboon behavior - their ability to stand on two legs.

Through a series of experiments, we see baboons standing up and walking on their hind legs with varying levels of success. While standing up is not a new phenomenon in the animal kingdom, the extent to which baboons are able to stand up and walk on two legs is what sets them apart. Prof. Crook believes that this ability could have been a precursor to the evolution of human bipedalism.

To investigate this further, the team recreates different habitats and scenarios to test the baboons' propensity to stand up. They test them in open fields, on rocky terrain and in dense vegetation. The results show that baboons were more likely to stand up when they were in terrains that limited their access to food and water. This, according to Prof. Crook, was an indication that standing up served as a survival strategy for baboons in unfavorable conditions.

Apart from its possible evolutionary implications, standing up also has significant social implications for baboons. Through their experiments, Prof. Crook and his team show that monkeys that stand up are more likely to be the focus of attention from the rest of their group. This could lead to increased social recognition, as well as more opportunities to mate, eat first, and gain other social benefits.

The show also features interviews with other primatologists who weigh in on the significance of Prof. Crook's research. Some of them argue that standing up may not necessarily have been a precursor to human bipedalism, but rather an adaptive strategy that was unique to baboons. However, all of them agree that Prof. John Crook's research is an important step forward in our understanding of the evolution of primates.

Throughout the episode, the viewer is treated to stunning visuals of baboons in their natural habitat. The scenes of baboons walking on two legs are particularly fascinating, and the viewer can see the concentration and effort that is required on the part of the baboon to maintain this posture. Against the backdrop of the African savanna, the baboons' behavior is a poignant reminder of the complexities of animal behavior and the intricate relationships that exist within animal societies.

Overall, "The Ape That Stood Up" offers a fascinating insight into the world of primate behavior. By showcasing the research and experiments conducted by Prof. John Crook, the show highlights the complex social and behavioral patterns that are exhibited by baboons. The episode is a testament to the remarkable work being done by scientists in the field of primatology, and the excitement that comes from uncovering new insights into animal behavior.