Environmental influences on reproduction and maternal behavior in captive gorillas: Results of a survey (1989)

Miller-Schroeder, P. , Paterson, J. D.

Abstract

There are factors in the physical environment that appear to influence tendency of mothers to abuse or neglect their infants. ... Opportunities for activity and play reduce stress and boredom, as do refuges for privacy. ... Generally, it seems that the larger and more complex a female's environment, the better her chances of rearing her infants normally. ... The presence of other group members as a buffer against child-related stress cannot be over-emphasized. Females reproduced more successfully if their enclosures contained various structures, especially privacy refuges like sight barriers and cages.