In this case study, Wittiger explains that wild gorillas have not been observed using the same tool use behaviours as other great ape populations. However, he describes an event that occurred in 2005 in the Republic of Congo where a female gorilla was observed using a stick to test water depth. Researchers have also reported Cross River gorilla populations in the Kagwene Mountains in Cameroon throwing grass and branches during agonistic displays. Wittiger claims that this behaviour could be learned due to human interactions. However, he stresses that more data needs to be collected.
Wittiger’s research, while short, provides evidential accounts of gorilla populations using tools in order to display aggressive or defensive social behaviours.
Wittiger’s research, while short, provides evidential accounts of gorilla populations using tools in order to display aggressive or defensive social behaviours.