Refined tastes of gorillas revealed

Extract from our Autumn newsletter – Digit News

Even after decades of study, gorillas still find ways to surprise us. Recent studies have revealed gorilla group dynamics to be far more complex than previously believed.

And now, it turns out that the diets of gorillas in the wild are far more varied – and sophisticated – than primatologists once thought.

Foraging for truffles
Conservationists working in the Congo have observed gorillas foraging the forest floor for truffles. And it’s not just the taste or even the nutrition they are after. According to the researchers from Lincoln Park Zoo, the behaviour may be a way of strengthening social bonds, especially with incoming members of gorilla groups.

Gorilla Organization Chairman Ian Redmond is, however, not so surprised. “When you watch gorillas up close for long periods, it becomes clear just how varied their diet and their dining habits really are,” he says.

“From staples like bamboo shoots and fruits to protein-heavy termites and now, it seems, truffles too, our cousins in the forest also like to mix things up and seek out new flavours.”

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