The Detroit Zoo Chimpanzees Pan troglodytes: exhibit design, group composition and the process of group formation (1994)

McDonald, S.

Abstract

All adults were introduced to each other first through mesh and then physically. ... Before all physical introductions, the Chimpanzees involved were fed double their normal morning rations and then fed a single ration ten minutes prior to the start of the introduction. Play items ... were scattered throughout the day room. These strategies were employed in an attempt to reduce tension further and provide distractions. ... Following the dyadic/triadic introductions, an adult female group was formed and the [two] males were added three days later. All 11 Chimpanzees were successfully integrated into one social group. ... The mesh and physical introductions only produced five visible wounds, all minor and not requiring veterinary attention. Over the six months following group formation 34 wounds were observed. Of these, one required amputation of wounded digits and four others were treated with antibiotics.