20 Fascinating Facts About Gorillas
Gorillas are the largest living primates and share nearly 98% of their DNA with humans, making them some of our closest relatives. Known for their strength, intelligence, and social bonds, gorillas inhabit the dense forests of central and eastern Africa. Despite their powerful appearance, they are generally gentle and play a crucial role in maintaining the health of their ecosystems. Here are 20 interesting facts that uncover the remarkable world of gorillas.
1. There Are Two Species of Gorillas
Gorillas are divided into two main species—Eastern gorilla (Gorilla beringei) and Western gorilla (Gorilla gorilla), each with two subspecies.
2. They Are Primarily Herbivores
Their diet consists mainly of leaves, stems, fruits, and shoots, though they occasionally eat insects for protein.
3. Gorillas Live in Social Groups Called Troops
Troops are usually led by a dominant silverback male, who protects and guides the group. A troop can have 5–30 members.
4. Silverbacks Are Mature Male Leaders
A male gorilla becomes a silverback at about 12 years old, when the hair on his back turns silvery gray.
5. They Communicate in Many Ways
Gorillas use more than 20 distinct vocalizations, as well as body language and facial expressions, to communicate.
6. They Are Mostly Ground-Dwelling
Gorillas are knuckle-walkers, using their knuckles to support their weight while moving on all fours, though they can walk upright for short distances.
7. Gorillas Share 98% of Human DNA
Their close genetic relationship means they are vulnerable to many human diseases, including the flu and common cold.
8. They Are Found Only in Africa
Gorillas live in tropical and subtropical forests across 10 African countries, including Rwanda, Uganda, and the Republic of Congo.
9. They Build Nests to Sleep
Every night, gorillas construct nests from leaves and branches on the ground or in trees.
10. Gorillas Are Gentle by Nature
Despite their size and strength, gorillas are generally peaceful and only become aggressive when threatened.
11. They Play an Important Ecological Role
By eating fruits and dispersing seeds, gorillas help maintain forest health and biodiversity.
12. They Have Strong Family Bonds
Members of a troop groom, protect, and comfort each other, with strong emotional connections between mothers and infants.
13. Infants Are Born Very Small
A newborn gorilla weighs only about 1.8–2 kg (4–4.5 lbs) and clings to its mother for the first months of life.
14. They Can Use Tools
Wild gorillas have been observed using sticks to test water depth and leaves as sponges to drink water.
15. They Have Long Lifespans
In the wild, gorillas can live up to 35–40 years, while in captivity they can reach over 50 years.
16. They Are Stronger Than Humans
An adult male gorilla can be up to 10 times stronger than the average man, capable of lifting over 800 kg (1,800 lbs).
17. They Have Unique Nose Prints
Just like human fingerprints, each gorilla’s nose pattern is unique and can be used for identification.
18. They Are Critically Endangered
All gorilla subspecies are threatened by habitat loss, poaching, and diseases. Mountain gorillas, in particular, have fewer than 1,100 individuals left.
19. Conservation Efforts Are Working
Thanks to strict protection and ecotourism programs, mountain gorilla populations have been slowly increasing in recent decades.
20. They Inspire Human Culture
From conservation movements to films like King Kong and Gorillas in the Mist, gorillas have captured global attention and inspired protection efforts.
Conclusion:
Gorillas are intelligent, family-oriented, and essential to the forests they inhabit. While they face serious threats in the wild, continued conservation efforts and education can help secure a future for these gentle giants. Protecting gorillas means preserving not just a species, but an entire ecosystem that countless other creatures depend on.
