Presentation Details
| Second Chances: Behavioral Responses Following the Reintroduction of a Silverback Gorilla Claudia C.Martinez1, 2, Valerie James-Aldridge3, Todd J.McWhorter2, Eduardo J.Fernandez2. 1University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg, Texas, USA.2Adelaide University, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia.3Gladys Porter Zoo, Brownsville, Texas, USA |
Abstract
Changes in gorilla social group structure can create behavioral and management challenges in zoos. This study examined behavioral responses during the second attempt to introduce Mbundi, a mature male silverback, to three adult female western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) at the Gladys Porter Zoo following a previous unsuccessful introduction. Behavioral data were collected before introduction, early post-introduction, and later post-introduction, then analyzed using generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs). Behavioral patterns varied across the introduction timeline and differed between indoor and outdoor environments. Anxiety-related and agonistic behaviors declined after reintroduction, with the model-estimated probability of agonistic behavior decreasing from 15.8% before introduction to 4.4% early post-introduction and 1.7% later post-introduction. Affiliative behavior also changed across periods differently indoors and outdoors, while abnormal and other undesirable behaviors remained stable. These findings suggest that phased introductions and adaptive management may support social integration and welfare in managed gorilla groups.
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No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
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