ISSN:
0032-8332
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Over a period of seven months four wild born adult female lowland gorillas were observed under semi-natural captive conditions. Thirty instances of contact interactions were recorded during 80 hours of observation. These interactions were segregated into categories operationally defined as connoting playful, homosexual, and affiliative activities. During observation periods the animals' labial tumescence was rated and the stage of the cycle was estimated. Metacommunicative signals were involved during playful interactions which resembled social rough-and-tumble play. Sexual interactions included partner positioning, thrusting, and usually were accomplished through ventral-ventral genital approximations. Sexual activity was also significantly related to cycle state. Contact interactions appeared to represent a specification and elaboration of a trend revealed through measures of proximity.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF02373633
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