After humans, geladas have the most sophisticated voices
The bizarre call of the gelada monkey bears a surprising resemblance to human speech. Scientists are researching whether or not it might help us understand how early humans spoke.
Finn and Neil talk about the development of human speech, and make some silly noises.
This week's question:
What do geladas eat?
a) fish
b) grass
c) ice-cream
Listen to the programme to find out the answer.
Vocabulary
- gargle
the noise made when liquid is moved around at the back of the throat
- onomatopoeia
(using) words which sound like their meaning
- origins
- primitive noises
- evolutionary ancestors
early types of plant or animal before they developed into their modern forms
- speech-like properties
qualities that are like speech
- vocal anatomy
the physical structure of the inside of the mouth and throat
- lip smacking
making sounds with the lips, tongue and teeth without using the voice
- vocalisations
sounds made using the voice
- small talk
conversation that is not really important, but helps people who do not know each other well pass the time
- monkey business
behaviour that is silly, unacceptable or dishonest