To begin with we must establish precisely how the naked ape does behave today when indulging in sexual behaviour. This is not as easy as it sounds, because of the great variability that exists, both between and within societies. [...] Sexual behaviour in our species goes through three characteristic phases: pair-formation, pre-copulatory activity and copulation, usually but not always in that order. The pair-formation stage, usually referred to as courtship, is remarkably prolonged by animal standards, frequently lasting for weeks or even months. As with many other species it is characterised by tentative, ambivalent behaviour involving conflicts between fear, aggression and sexual attraction. The nervousness and hesitancy is slowly reduced if the mutual sexual signs are strong enough. These involve complex facial expressions, body postures and vocalisations. The latter involve the highly specialised and symbolised sound signals of speech, but equally important they present to the member of the opposite sex a distinctive vocalisation tone. A courting couple is often referred to as 'murmuring sweet nothings' and this phrase sums up clearly the significance of the tone of voice opposed to that of being spoken.
After the initial stages of visual and vocal display, simple body contacts are made. These usually accompany locomotion, which is now considerably increased when the pair are together. Hand-to-hand and arm-to-arm contacts are followed by mouth-to-mouth ones. Mutual embracing occurs, both statically and during locomotion. Sudden spontaneous outbursts of running, chasing, jumping and dancing are commonly seen and juvenile play patterns may reappear.
desmond morris, the naked ape, corgi, 1969
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