Abstract

Captive bonobos live within a complex system of social behaviors and networks that are inextricably tied to human care. Though a vast amount of anthropological literature exists studying captive bonobo behavior, researchers have yet to fully explore these behaviors in the context of human care, zoological practices, and socio-cultural theory. This study aims to investigate culture in captive bonobos and the impacts of human and non-human primate interactions in zoos on the welfare and socialization of captive bonobos. In my interdisciplinary Independent Study, I draw on existing anthropological and historical literature and original ethnographic research to understand how a single group of captive bonobos utilizes grooming and socio-sexual exchange. I ground my anthropological research in the historical context of Western exploitation of the great apes in vaudeville, zoo shows, and television. I analyze primary sources from the early 1920s, mid-1950s, and late 1970s that exemplify the commodification of chimpanzees and bonobos in entertainment and zoological gardens. I conduct my ethnographic research through an interview, participant observation, and visual anthropology. My quantitative methods consist of random scan-sampling, ethogram construction, and inferential statistical analysis of behavioral data. I found that my study group of bonobos spent much their time engaged in allogrooming while only a very small percentage of their time was spent engaged in socio-sexual contact. Caregivers also play a significant role in influencing animal welfare, socialization, and holistic health. My study offers insight into the social dynamics of one community of captive bonobos, and my findings highlight the importance of informed care standards in providing captive primates with enriched, healthy, and dynamic lives.

Advisor

Shaya, Gregory

Second Advisor

Frese, Pamela

Department

History; Sociology and Anthropology

Disciplines

Anthropology | Behavior and Ethology | Biological and Physical Anthropology | United States History

Keywords

Non-human primate behavior, evolutionary anthropology, bonobos, animal-human history, ethnoprimatology, zoological studies, affiliative primate behavior, ex-situ animal care, primate entertainment, history of zoological gardens

Publication Date

2026

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2026 Abigail E. Frock