The effects of temporary space reduction on lowland gorilla socialization (1990)

Sutherland, R.

Abstract

Successful integration protocols of juveniles and a mature female into established groups are clearly outlined. Reducing the enclosure size appears to have a number of benefits. The reduction in agonistic behaviour by all individuals, as well as the time needed for socialization, appears to be largely due to increased effectiveness in the expression of threat displays by the silverback in particular. Rushing through branches and straw allowed a visual dominance in the small enclosure that would not be as evident in a larger enclosure.