Which ape is known for using sticks and other tools to extract termites?

Chimpanzees are known for using sticks and other tools to extract termites.

A chimpanzee may modify a twig by removing leaves or side branches, then insert it into a termite mound. After termites grip or climb onto the tool, the chimpanzee withdraws it and eats them. This behavior is a well-known example of animal tool use and can differ between communities.

Chimpanzees also use leaves as sponges to collect drinking water, stones to crack nuts, and leafy branches as shelters. Young animals often learn techniques by watching older group members, so tool traditions can be transmitted socially rather than being identical everywhere.

The termite-fishing example helped change scientific views about the boundary between human and animal behavior. Jane Goodall’s observations at Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania were especially influential. Chimpanzees remain wild great apes, not monkeys, and they are more closely related to humans than either is to gorillas.