Gibbon Aggression During Introductions: An International Survey

Area of Science:

• Primate behavior
• Conservation biology
• Zoological management

Background:

• Aggression during introductions of captive gibbons (Hylobatidae) is poorly understood.
• Understanding these behaviors is crucial for effective captive management and welfare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the prevalence and types of aggression during captive gibbon introductions.
• To collect contextual details surrounding these aggressive events.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was distributed to institutions housing gibbons.
• The survey collected data on the frequency, types, and triggers of aggression during introductions.

Main Results:

• 19% of institutions reported observing aggression during gibbon introductions.
• Males were the primary aggressor in 58% of observed cases; food displacement was a noted trigger in 27% of instances.
• Most aggressive incidents resulted in mild or no injuries, and management changes often reduced aggression.

Conclusions:

• Aggression is a notable factor in captive gibbon introductions, with specific triggers and aggressor patterns.
• Individual personalities and effective management strategies, such as revised pairings, are key to mitigating aggression.