Mountain Gorillas live in stable groups of around 10 individuals
Usually consists of one mature
dominant male, a number of
adult females and their
offspring
The dominant male protects the other members
of the group, leads them and is the only male
that mates with the females.
As younger males reach
sexual maturity they leave
the group and live alone
until they are mature
enough to attract females.
Social Behaviour in Gorillas
Grooming is an important activity. One individual picks the parasites
from the fur of another reinforcing relationships between individuals
Care of offspring is the role of the mother.
During the first 5 months the infant remains
in constant contract with the mother.
By the age of 12
months, infants will
venture as far as 5m
away from the
mother.
During this period the female protects
the young gorilla as it learns the social
and other skills for living independently.
Further learning takes place at the
age of two where the young play
together and imitate adult behaviour of
foraging for food
The silverback is important in
the development of the young
ages 3-6, both in terms of
protection from older males
within the group and in p0lay
as a source of new skills
Communication System Exists
A variety of calls, displays and grunts are
used to signal danger to other members.
Facial expressions are also
important in terms of
recognition.
Advantages of Social Behaviour
Females give birth to only one or
very few infants at a time to enhance
the survival rate of the young.
The young learn through observation
of and play with other members.
Knowledge and protection of food
sources shared in the group