Salonga, Democratic Republic of Congo — In a shocking incident observed in February, a male bonobo named Hugo has not been seen since he sustained severe injuries during a brutal attack by five female members of his group. This alarming event, documented by primatologists, sheds light on the often misunderstood dynamics within bonobo communities, previously perceived as peaceful and harmonious.
On February 18, around 3:30 p.m., researchers witnessed a chaotic scene unfold in the Salonga jungle. Hugo, reported to be nearly 20 years old, was subjected to a prolonged assault that lasted approximately 25 minutes. While Hugo attempted to shield himself, the females clambered over him, unleashing biting and stomping that left him severely injured. Witnesses noted that among the attacks, one female even bit off a part of his ear, prompting concern about the underlying motivations behind this extreme behavior.
“The physical injuries Hugo suffered were extensive,” said Sonya Pashchevskaya, a primatologist who witnessed the incident. “It’s deeply troubling, and we are concerned for his survival.” After two hours, Hugo managed to escape but has remained missing since.
Pashchevskaya’s observations challenge the long-held idealization of bonobos as purely peaceful beings. Unlike male chimpanzees, who display clear hierarchical aggression to secure mating opportunities, bonobos operate under a matriarchal system in which females often use social cooperation to maintain dominance. However, this incident illustrates that even bonobo societies can experience violence, particularly when threatened.
The attack on Hugo may have been rooted in an aggressive encounter he had with the infant of one of the assailants just days before. Such interactions are critical; while male aggression in the animal kingdom often serves reproductive ends, bonobo females uniquely collaborate to defend their young against threats, even from males. Their alliances foster a structure in which females can effectively control male behavior through social bonds rather than physical strength.
Martin Surbeck of Harvard University explained, “Female coalitions have the potential to shift power dynamics entirely, reflecting that social support is a significant source of strength.” Recent research shows that a large proportion of aggressive actions within bonobo groups are driven by females aiming to keep males in check, preventing behaviors commonly seen among chimpanzees.
The ferocity displayed during Hugo’s attack is believed to stem from an urgent need to protect their infants. Primatologists suggest that acts of extreme violence against adult males can deter harmful behavior toward young ones, establishing boundaries within bonobo society. Nahoko Tokuyama, another bonobo researcher, expressed astonishment at the severity of the incident, emphasizing that aggression against infants is a severe violation of social norms that often provokes immediate retaliation.
Experts highlight that the injuries inflicted on Hugo, particularly to his genital area, reflect a pragmatic choice in the nature of such violence, drawing parallels to similar behavior observed in male chimpanzees targeting rivals. However, the collaborative genital rubbing that occurred during the attack also points to a common strategy for reinforcing social bonds among bonobos, particularly during high-stress moments.
As scientists continue to analyze this rare event, it serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities within primate societies and challenges preconceived notions regarding their behavior. The dual nature of bonobo interactions — balancing aggression and cooperation — provides profound insight into the evolutionary narratives of great apes, illustrating that even within perceived utopias, violence can emerge from the tangled web of social relationships.
