托福口语 Task 4

Today, we're going to discuss a fascinating concept in animal behavior called 'tool use.' Now, tool use isn't just about using objects to get food—it can also serve social or defensive purposes. Let me give you two examples. First, consider the sea otter. When a sea otter eats a clam, it will often use a stone as an anvil. It floats on its back, places the stone on its chest, and then smashes the clam against it to break the shell. This is a clear case of tool use for feeding. But tool use can also be social. Take the male chimpanzee. In some communities, a dominant male will pick up a large branch and drag it noisily through the forest. This behavior, called 'branch dragging,' is not about getting food. Instead, it's a display of power. The noise attracts attention and intimidates other males, helping the chimp maintain his social status. So, as you can see, tool use in animals is not limited to obtaining food—it can also be used to communicate or assert dominance.