Dominance Hierarchy in Male Chimpanzees

Chimpanzee Politics

There is a definite, mostly linear, dominance hierarchy between males in a chimpanzee community. The dominant male is called the alpha male. The dominant male often charges and “displays” by bristling his hair, dragging or shaking branches and banging or stomping on whatever he can find. These displays serve to make a male chimpanzee look large and powerful, often more so than he may actually be. Males will often use objects as clubs or missiles during these displays. Power-wielding coalitions are formed between individuals of both sexes. The ability of a male to enlist support during conflict is one of the most important factors in attaining and maintaining his rank. A male does not have to be the largest or the strongest of the group to attain alpha status – a smart, cunning male that knows how to manipulate social situations may gain the top position with the appropriate allies and friends. The alpha male typically keeps the peace in the group by settling disputes and maintaining the social order. Most disputes within a community can be solved by threats rather than actual attacks. Alpha tenure lasts between three and 10 years and only a few males achieve the top rank. Alphas frequently take meat from others and supplant individuals at rich food sites. Access to females and the reproductive benefits that follow are one of the biggest advantages of being the alpha male.

Chimpanzees are territorial and will wage what we might describe as “war” with neighboring communities. Home territories can range from 30 to 150 square miles. Chimpanzee males patrol the boundaries of their home range and have been observed staring into the neighboring communities territory. They will also make short forays into the territory in search of enemies. Strangers are not well received into established communities except in the case of a female who is ready to mate. A meeting between two rival groups can result in serious injuries and even death.

Clarification added 6 days ago:

Oops, due to space (# characters) restriction, I did not type the purpose behind the posting.

This is not a question, just FYI.

IMHO.

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