Scientists Spill the Secrets of Apes Dreaming Like Humans—Belief Explodes

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 19:16:13 +0000

Scientists Spill the Secrets: Apes Dream Like Humans—Belief Explodes in Scientific Community and Beyond In a groundbreaking revelation, researchers have uncovered compelling evidence suggesting that non-human apes experience dreams remarkably similar to those of humans. What was once considered a uniquely human phenomenon is now being closely examined through advanced brain-wave monitoring and behavioral analysis, sparking a resurgence of intrigue—and belief—that apes dream just as we do. ### The Surprising Link: Apes and Human Dreaming Patterns Recent interdisciplinary studies led by neuroscientists and primatologists have employed sophisticated EEG (electroencephalogram) technology to record brain activity in captive chimpanzees and bonobos during sleep. Researchers observed distinct patterns—known as REM sleep—previously associated with dreaming in humans, including rapid eye movements and complex neural firing. More strikingly, spike-like bursts of electrical signals closely mirrored those seen when humans report vivid dream experiences.