Homosexuality in Gorillas

Do gorillas engage in homosexuality? Yes, mountain gorillas engage in same sex interactions even though the frequency is minimal. A question on whether gorillas engage in homosexuality has been frequently asked and the correct answer is yes.  Just like in other primates and human beings to whom gorillas are close relatives. Over time, the social and sexual behaviors of gorillas have been diverse and a deep understanding on their sexuality is key. In this article Superfine Safaris Limited gives you a detailed understanding of same sex characters of gorillas, one of man’s close relatives. Same sex in mountain gorillas is a social behavior which help to strengthen binds, reduce tension, offer comfort and establish dominance among the gorillas

Observed Same-Sex Behavior in Gorillas

Whereas same sex in gorillas has been rarely observed, the endangered species have been on some occasions observed have same sex interactions.  Homosexuality is so common among female gorillas in the wild and in zoos.  Same sex in gorillas is demonstrated in the following ways

Female–female mounting

In some cases, female gorillas have been seen mounting each other especially during periods of social excitement or when forming close alliances. Mounting is always often gentle, brief, and accompanied by grooming, touching, or playful behaviors.

Genital contact between females

Some female pairs have been seen rubbing or pressing their genitals together. These interactions appear to occur more when females are without infants or when a new female joins a group and needs to ease social tension.

 Sexual-type play in juveniles

Young gorillas, like many mammalian juveniles, engage in exploratory play. Some of this play involves mounting or genital touching with peers of either sex. In young animals, this is not considered sexual orientation but part of normal developmental behavior.

Rare male–male interactions

Were as less common, same-sex behavior between adult male gorillas has been occasionally observed.  The act normally occurs in bachelor groups, during periods of social stress and is also a way of reducing aggression. Black backs and subordinate males engage in same sex behaviors unlike the Silverbacks who rarely do so

Why Do Gorillas Exhibit Same-Sex Behaviors?

With each gorilla family headed by one dominant Silverback gorilla with strict rules  and group bonding’s, same sex behaviors help gorillas in ;

Social Bonding

Same sex behaviors in gorillas is so common in adult female gorillas looking to create friendship amongst themselves. Each gorilla group is led by one silverback gorilla who mates with all adults in the family.  Sexuality among females help them to  keep calm , genital rubbing satisfies the libido reducing tension in the group

 Conflict Resolution

In some cases, gorillas engage in same sex to calm stress from conflicts that rise in the family. Gorillas can be stressed over food, space and dominance and homosexuality helps them to ease the tension and calm them

 Practice and Learning

Just like in human beings, the juvenile gorillas practice same sex  when trying to explore adult behaviors.  The feelings drive them to the same sex or opposite sex by mounting, genital rubbing and other intimate behaviors. These practices initiate the juveniles into  adult stages of reproduction and  dominance for the males

Comfort and Emotional Expression

Research also show that gorillas engage in same sex behaviors such as touching, grooming and intimacy as a gesture of deep emotional expression. Homosexuality can be used to express affection, reassurance, or curiosity

Do Gorillas Have Sexual Orientations Like Humans?

NO, same sex behaviors in gorillas is a not as intensive as in human beings.  The homosexuality in gorillas is a rare case which sees situational and not intentional. The endangered primates do not from long term same sex relation

Same-Sex Behavior in Gorillas Compared to Other Primates

• Bonobos:  Bonobos are the leaders in same sex practices amongst all other primates.  Homosexuality plays a big role in the social behaviors of bonobos in their societies
• Chimpanzees:  Same sex practices in chimpanzees have ben noticed especially among the adult males.
• People: In recent times human beings have embraced same sex behaviors especially in the western world.

Conclusively, yes, gorillas engage in homosexuality though not frequently. Same sex behaviors in gorillas serve social and emotional purposes, building bonds, resolving conflicts and expressing affection.