Female crested gibbons exhibit lively, somewhat geometric movements. A team of researchers from Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (HHU), Norway’s Oslo, and Paris have explored these striking movements, which share similarities with human dance. Their findings on the structure, rhythm, and situational context of these dances are documented in the scientific journal, Primates.
Zoo patrons may have noticed female crested gibbons engaging in noticeable sequences of twitchy movements involving their bodies, arms, and legs. This behavior is observable both in captivity and in the wild. A video showcases the captivating dances of female crested gibbons.
Crested gibbons are part of the small ape family, yet this unique display has not attracted much scientific attention until now. Researchers Dr. Kai R. Caspar from HHU, Dr. Camille Coye from the Institut Jean Nicod in Paris, and Professor Dr. Pritty Patel-Grosz from the University of Oslo have meticulously analyzed this intriguing behavior of gibbons and share their insights in the journal Primates. They concentrated on the sequence, rhythm, and intent of the gibbons during their dances.
According to Dr. Coye, the lead author of the study, “Our analysis of video footage from various zoos and rescue facilities shows that all crested gibbon species engage in these dances. They serve as a common and intentional method of visual communication.” Evidence of their purposeful dancing is seen in how gibbons often check for audience attention while performing.
Professor Patel-Grosz adds, “Only sexually mature females are seen dancing. In their species, these dances are primarily used to attract mates, though they also appear in a variety of contexts related to non-sexual excitement or frustration and are frequently directed towards humans in zoo settings.”
The researchers noted that the dance movements exhibit a distinct grouping structure. Dr. Caspar stated, “They often consist of up-and-down or left-and-right movements, following a distinct rhythm. The complexity of the movement sequences can vary depending on the individual.”
While similarities are noted between crested gibbon dances and human dance, the researchers believe they developed separately, supported by the absence of similar behaviors in other ape species. Additionally, gibbon dances are likely innate, whereas human dance is largely influenced by culture. Human dance typically incorporates music or song, which is not the case for gibbons.
“The observation of this dance behavior was accidental, but it is now being reported from multiple zoos,” Dr. Caspar explains. Dancing crested gibbons can be observed at locations such as Duisburg Zoo and Burgers’ Zoo in Arnhem, Netherlands, among others.
