An interesting study recently conducted at Buffalo Zoo, New York, has discovered that gorillas have individual responses to different kinds of music, much like humans!
Researchers observed three Western lowland gorillas - Koga, Sydney and Lilly - listening to various different sounds, including sounds of the rainforest (natural), Chopin (Classical), or Muse (rock).
All of them changed behaviours when listening to the rainforest sounds. Interestingly, Kiga was very drawn to the speakers while Muse was playing, while Sydney didn't seem to like it nearly as much as Lily showed no interest as all... Clearly only a few gorillas are rock fans!
The study demonstrates the effect that audio enrichment can have on reducing stereotypic behaviours in captive animals.
"These results suggest that auditory enrichment, which is not commonly used in zoos in a systematic way, can be easily utilized by keepers to help decrease stereotypic behavior, but the nature of the stimulus, as well as the differential responses of individual animals, need to be considered'' - Seriously Science.
Write to us on [email protected] or send us a message via the form on our contact page.
Rwanda: +250 (0) 252 502 452
Uganda: +256 (0) 414 346 464
© Volcanoes Safaris 1997 – 2024. All Rights Reserved
Write to us on [email protected] or send us a message via the form on our contact page.
Rwanda: +250 (0) 252 502 452
Uganda: +256 (0) 414 346 464
Tracking chimpanzees in their natural habitat, as they swing from the branches in the canopy high above the forest floor is nothing short of exhilarating. The chimps effortlessly cross and scamper through the trees above the gorge, and visitors on the other hand must cross the river using natural bridges in order to keep up with the chimps. So although the walk usually lasts only 2–3 hours, descending the steep gorge and crossing the log bridges over the river requires some agility and fitness.
Chimpanzee tracking is also available in nearby Kalinzu, a forest reserve 30 minutes drive from Kyambura Gorge Lodge where there is a community of about 40 habituated chimpanzees.
