Can a gorilla smile? It’s a question that has puzzled humans for years. But the answer may surprise you: yes, gorillas can smile!
Now, before you start imagining a gorilla grinning from ear to ear like a human, let’s clarify what we mean by “smile.” A gorilla’s smile is a subtle expression that involves turning the corners of the mouth upwards and exposing the teeth. It’s a brief and understated gesture, but it’s there.
In fact, researchers have found that gorillas use a variety of facial expressions to communicate with each other, including grins, frowns, and even raised eyebrows. These expressions can convey emotions like happiness, fear, and aggression.
But don’t just take our word for it. In a study published in the journal “PLOS ONE,” researchers analyzed the facial expressions of captive gorillas and found evidence of a “play face” that involved a subtle smile. They also noted that the gorillas used this expression when playing with each other, suggesting that it may be a sign of happiness or enjoyment.
So, the next time you see a gorilla at the zoo, keep an eye out for its smile. It may be hard to spot, but it’s just one of the many ways that these fascinating animals communicate with each other and with us.
And if you’re still skeptical about the idea of a gorilla smiling, just remember: if a tree falls in the forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound? If a gorilla smiles and no one is around to see it, does it still count? The answer is yes, of course!
