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Species: Gorilla

Use: Social Behavior

Authors: S.G. Brown

Methods: Frequencies Recorded

Publications/Presentations: S.G Brown (1988). Play Behavior in lowland gorillas: Age differences, Sex differences, and possible functions. Primates, 29 (2), 219:228.

Solitary play

Rotational/locomotor

Twirl: Spinning around bipedally

Somersault: Turning the body one full rotation head over heels.

Roll: Turning the body from side to side while supine, can be complete or incomplete rotation.

Run: Loose limbed gait, usually bipedal

Self: Slapping the face, clapping hands, or rubbing oneself without grooming

Object play: Play with inanimate objects and other species.

Climb/swing: From a tree, boulder or ledge.

Manipulate: An external object such as grass, dirt, or a branch.

Throw: An external object while in a relaxed stance.

Swing: An external object while in a relaxed stance.

Water: Water is used in the play sequence.

Moderate play

Open-mouth wrestling: Limbs entwined while sitting or laying; gorillas roll/twist together placing open mouths on each other.

Active play:

Rough/tumble: Vigorous bipedal wrestling.

Chasing: One gorilla rapidly following another, both with relaxed running gaits.