Viki’s ability to imitate was first noticed in her play at an early age. As her skills developed, her human “parents” began to develop exercises specifically geared to gauge her imitation abilities and what effect they had on her learning. They implemented an imitative training program at the age of 17 months.

The clip shows Viki at 27 months imitating Cathy by rapping her knuckles on the table and then pointing to her open mouth. Viki gets a food reward for her correct actions. Notice that Viki continues to rap her knuckles after getting some food, perhaps in anticipation that she will get more food for continuing the action.