Viki was motivated by hunger and thirst to learn tasks related to eating and drinking. Viki learned to open almost any type of container that held food or drink. Back in the 1950's, containers did not have “pop-tops” or twist-off caps and so a tool of one sort or another had to be used. These tools use a principle of leverage and so require careful positioning in their use.

Note the care with which Viki shuts the refrigerator door, even after her first attempt is incomplete. Also note that Viki uses a glass, like any properly raised chimpanzee, but she also is happy to drink directly from the can or bottle.