Apes, particularly great apes such as chimpanzees, bonobos, and gorillas, have been observed engaging in behaviors that resemble humor and playful teasing. Research suggests that apes display a variety of playful behaviors, including tickling, chasing, mock aggression, and practical jokes. These behaviors often involve physical contact, vocalizations, and facial expressions that indicate a sense of enjoyment and amusement.

A study conducted by researchers at the University of St Andrews in the United Kingdom examined playful behavior among captive chimpanzees. The researchers observed the chimpanzees over an extended period and analyzed their interactions. They found that chimpanzees engaged in playful teasing, which involved playfully deceiving or tricking others in a non-harmful way. For example, one chimpanzee might pretend to offer food to another chimpanzee but then quickly pull it away, eliciting laughter and playfulness from both individuals.

Another study, conducted by researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Germany, investigated playful behavior in bonobos. The researchers observed bonobos engaging in a variety of playful activities, including tickling, chasing, and mock aggression. They found that bonobos often engaged in playful behaviors with familiar individuals, such as close relatives or friends.

While these studies provide evidence that apes engage in behaviors that resemble humor and playful teasing, it is important to note that the interpretation of these behaviors is complex and there may be differences in how humans and apes experience humor. Apes' playful behaviors may serve various functions, such as reinforcing social bonds, practicing social skills, or managing social hierarchies. Further research is needed to fully understand the nature and complexity of humor and playful teasing in apes.