Cole, M. 1990. The effects of separation from and subsequent reintroduction to an established group on a primiparous female lowland gorilla. Proceedings: Columbus Zoo Gorilla Workshop, 16-26.

Isolating a gorilla mother from her cagemates at the time of parturition can lead to abusive behavior directed towards the infant .... Social isolation is detrimental to the well-being of both mother and infant, and should be avoided as a matter of principle. ... The analysis further suggests that the possibility of potential injury to an infant by a cagemate is outweighed by the positive behavior of a mother to her infant and her potential to rear the infant successfully.... The survey sent to other zoos supports the statement that female gorillas have a greater potential to rear their infants successfully if left with their cagemates, as opposed to isolating them for fear that the infant will be injured by one of those cagemates.