Can gorillas really walk like humans?

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In summary, a gorilla has been observed walking upright in a park, which has sparked speculation about his reasons for doing so. He is said to have inherited the ability from his father and sister, and some suggest that it could be due to better hip structure. Some have joked about the gorilla's posture and compared it to humans, while others have praised his swagger. Some even wonder if this gorilla family has "re-invented" upright walking, and if they could possibly invent other things like the wheel. However, others point out that the gorilla's upright position could also be seen as a sign of dominance among other gorillas.
  • #1
Evo
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He's pretty good.

http://news.yahoo.com/video/world-15749633/gorilla-s-upright-walk-in-the-park-23997727
 
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  • #2
he's just aping his captors
 
  • #3
His father and sister did it, too, apparently. There is speculation that he learned that he could carry logs while walking if only he walked upright. Also speculation that the extra height let's him see over the enclosure so that he'll be the first to know if the keepers are bringing food.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/01/27/gorilla-walks-like-human_n_814994.html
 
  • #4
^that's interesting that his relatives did it, too. maybe he inherited better hips for walking? wish they'd do an MRI.
 
  • #5
I'd be more impressed if he could walk like an Egyptian.
 
  • #6
Evo said:
He's pretty good.
Frankie Valli would be proud.

Walk Like a Man (Sing Like a Chipmunk)
 
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  • #7
<slo-mo spin of a woodstick while Wagner's Ride of the Valkyries plays in the bacground>
 
  • #8
He has better posture than most men I've dated.
 

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  • #9
When that ape starts dressing in human clothes I wiil get worried... :)
 
  • #10
Could it be that this gorilla family actually re-invented uprighteousness (if that's the word). After all, our first ancestors did not have anyone around whom they could imitate, did they? (Did they?) :surprise:

How long before they re-invent the wheel?
 
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  • #11
Watching that, I was reminded of this oldie but goodie...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WG7Zon78pqk
 
  • #12
Inevitable (4 min 26 sec).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9t2Uh8qCoZw#t=4m26s
 
  • #13
Evo said:
He's pretty good
Yup, he has a bit of swagger, makes me wonder what the other gorillas think of it.
 
  • #14
lisab said:
Watching that, I was reminded of this oldie but goodie...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WG7Zon78pqk

Yep, but Patty's stride is much better and her legs obviously longer.
 
  • #15
Other gorillas would make fun of him as if we make fun of someone who might walk like a gorilla!
 
  • #16
I'd imagine the upright position would make him more superior thus people wouldn't dare to laugh. Where as in the human case we would be decreasing our size, just a thought.
 
  • #17
Maybe they should introduce him to the staff-twirling bear.
 

FAQ: Can gorillas really walk like humans?

1. Can gorillas really walk upright like humans?

Yes, gorillas have the ability to walk upright on two legs like humans for short distances. However, they primarily move using their knuckles and the soles of their feet, a form of locomotion called knuckle-walking.

2. Why do gorillas sometimes walk like humans?

Gorillas may walk upright on two legs for a few reasons, such as to reach food in trees or to move through shallow water. It is also believed that walking upright helps them see over tall grass and communicate with other gorillas in their group.

3. Is walking like humans a natural behavior for gorillas?

No, it is not a natural behavior for gorillas. They primarily move using their knuckles and the soles of their feet, and only occasionally walk upright for specific purposes.

4. Can all gorillas walk upright?

No, not all gorillas have the ability to walk upright. Mountain gorillas, the largest and most commonly studied gorilla species, have been observed walking upright. However, other gorilla species such as western lowland gorillas and eastern lowland gorillas have not been observed doing so.

5. How does a gorilla's anatomy allow them to walk like humans?

Gorillas have a similar skeletal structure to humans, with their arms and legs attached to a central torso. Their arms are longer in proportion to their legs, allowing them to use their knuckles for support when walking upright. They also have a flexible spine, which allows them to balance and move in a more upright position.

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