Imitation in
the great apes is a controversial and complex subject. Defining
"imitation" and cognitive mechanisms involved has been an ongoing
challenge to research. In a spontaneous session at the San Francisco
Zoo, the gorilla Zura responded to the investigator's gesturing by
reproducing good copies of some of her gestures. For more
information, see:
Byrne,
Richard W. & Tanner, Joanne E. (2006). Gestural Imitation by a Gorilla: Evidence and Nature of the Capacity. International Journal of Psychology and Psychological Therapy, Vol. 6 No. 2, 215-231;
special issue on Animal Learning and Cognition, ed. Tom Zentall.
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swing arm up demonstrated
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swing arm up; Zura’s action
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slap top of head demonstrated
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slap top of head; Zura’s action
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slap shoulders demonstrated
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slap shoulders; Zura’s action
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slap cheek demonstrated
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slap cheek; Zura’s action
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