Peek-a-Boo Bonobo

Lexi, a nine year old bonobo at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, plays peek-a-boo with a blue shirt that was given to her by the keepers. Captive bonobos will blindfold themselves by covering their eyes with cloth, or use a hand, while contorting parts of their faces. I have seen youngsters play by putting an article of clothing around their heads, then turn in rapid circles until they were too dizzy to stand.

This photo highlights the reddish lips that are characteristic for the species. Their lips are a pink to red color that stand out against their dark faces.

Photo by M. Brickner