Gorillas sometimes beat their chests. But why do they do this, and what does it mean when you see a gorilla beating its chest?
Mountain gorillas usually beat their chests when they sense a threat or danger. When a gorilla beats its chest, it may be a sign that it is getting ready to charge at a human or another gorilla.
Chest-beating is one of the warning signs that a gorilla might attack, so it is important to stay away from its space when this happens.
Gorillas also beat their chests as a sign of victory, especially after a fight. It can also be a way for a male gorilla to show strength and attract females.
Sometimes, chest-beating is used as a way to communicate, especially by silverbacks. A silverback might beat his chest and then walk away, which is a signal for the group to follow him.
Silverback gorillas may also beat their chests if a younger silverback tries to challenge them. The chest-beating acts as a warning, and it may lead to the younger gorilla backing down or starting a fight.
Gorillas use many ways to send messages or warnings. These include loud sounds, grunts, tearing or throwing plants, roars, hooting, laughing, sticking out their tongues, and stamping their feet hard on the ground.
All these behaviors help gorillas communicate. Communication is very important in their group life, during mating, and in keeping order in the group.
