Vienna, Austria – Chimpanzees have shocked researchers with their ability to drum in rhythmic patterns that differ between groups and echo traits of human music.

A new study published on May 9 in Current Biology reveals that eastern and western chimpanzees—two distinct subspecies—drum with unique, recognizable rhythms.

Scientists analyzed 371 drumming bouts across 11 chimpanzee communities. They discovered that the timing between drum hits is not random but deliberately spaced, showing structured rhythm.

Western chimpanzees tended to use more evenly spaced hits and drummed faster. Eastern chimpanzees alternated between shorter and longer intervals.

The research team, led by Vesta Eleuteri from the University of Vienna, believes these behaviors suggest the roots of musicality trace back to a shared ancestor of humans and chimpanzees.

Chimpanzees use large tree roots to produce deep, percussive sounds. The drumming may serve as a way to signal their presence and activities to others in the rainforest.

Each chimpanzee has a unique drumming style. But this study found differences go beyond individuals—entire subspecies have distinct drumming cultures.

Co-author Catherine Hobaiter says the findings point to a deep evolutionary history behind rhythmic ability. The patterns seen in chimpanzee drumming mirror some foundations of human music.

The discovery raises new questions about how and when rhythmic communication evolved.

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