Researchers reveal secret of aye-ayes ’ long middle finger

Video shows captive Madagascan primates using elongated finger to pick nose and eat the mucusWith its big eyes, bushy tail and sensitive ears, the aye-aye may appear a cute, if quirky, creature. But now researchers have discovered it has a less endearing trait: it uses its long middle finger to pick its nose – and eat the mucus.Aye-ayes are – like humans – primates, but they are nocturnal, endangered and only found in Madagascar. An object of superstition, they have a number of unusual features, including rodent-like teeth and a skinny, elongated finger with a ball-and-socket joint.Continue reading...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - Category: Science Authors: Tags: Animals Science Madagascar Wildlife Environment Africa Source Type: news