Let’s talk gorilla communication!

Hi everyone, my name is Emily, and I’m a member of the Gorilla Care Team. Before working at Zoo Atlanta, I was a marine mammal trainer for six years! Something that has fascinated me with any species I have worked with is how different animals communicate. Each animal species has their own language, and I would love to talk about how gorillas communicate with each other.

Two main forms of communication gorillas use are vocalizations and physical displays. Gorillas are a highly social species, so it is important for them to have these modes of communication to maintain their hierarchy. They are also a more passive species, and will avoid conflict when they are able to, and communicating can aid them with that.

Gorillas use at least 22 different vocalizations to mean different things – grumbles, belching, humming, and “singing” are more positive expressions. As keepers, we hear different variations of grumbles, meaning different things. Some grumbles we hear both in the morning and evening as we feed them, expressing their excitement for food. Another grumble we hear, that sounds slightly different, expresses interest in other individuals and may indicate the desire to partake in mating behaviors.

We also hear a type of laughing vocal during play between individuals.  Other vocalizations that are common in gorillas are barking and screaming, which are used to express fear and discomfort. As I mentioned before, gorillas will try and avoid conflict and loud sounds they make can help, in addition to physical displays.

When you think of physical displays gorillas make, most people will first think of chest beating. Though slightly different than depicted in the movies – gorillas will use open palms as opposed to closed fists as it makes a louder sound that can travel upwards of a half mile away. This allows them to communicate over large distances to maintain their territory. In more proximate instances, utilizing their size and large teeth will do the trick to deter other males!

I love the challenge of working with a new species, and all that I can learn about them. The most interesting vocal I have heard so far has been the “laugh” that they produce during play – I never knew they could do that!

Emily B.
Gorilla Care Team