Gorillas are majestic and powerful primates known for their impressive size and strength.
Gorilla
180kg+
Weight
98%
DNA shared with humans
35-50
Year average lifespan
Gorillas have a distinct appearance with their muscular
build, prominent brows, and expressive eyes, captivating the attention of wildlife
enthusiasts and photographers worldwide.
Gorillas belong to the genus Gorilla and are divided into two species: the Eastern Gorilla (Gorilla beringei) and the Western Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla). They are primarily found in the forests of central and eastern Africa. Gorillas are herbivores, primarily feeding on leaves, shoots, fruits, and occasionally insects.
Overview
Gorillas are the largest living primates, with males weighing up to 400 pounds and standing over five feet tall when upright. They possess incredible strength and exhibit a social structure centred around family groups led by a dominant silverback male. Gorillas are known for their gentle and peaceful nature, although they can display aggression if provoked or during territorial disputes.
Encountering and photographing gorillas in the wild is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering a glimpse into their complex social dynamics, intimate family interactions, and their rich natural habitat during a photo safari.
Key facts
- Gorillas share approximately 98% of their DNA with humans, making them one of our closest living relatives.
- They are highly intelligent creatures, capable of using tools, displaying problem-solving skills, and exhibiting a wide range of emotions.
- Gorillas are predominantly herbivorous, consuming a diet mainly consisting of leaves, stems, fruits, and other plant material.
- They live in family groups known as troops, led by a dominant silverback male who protects and guides the group.
- Gorillas communicate through a variety of vocalizations, body postures, facial expressions, and gestures to convey messages within their social groups.
- These magnificent creatures have a lifespan of approximately 35-50 years in the wild, although some gorillas have been known to live longer under human care.
- Gorillas are primarily found in the dense forests of central and eastern Africa, including countries such as Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Cameroon.
- Conservation efforts are vital for the survival of gorillas, as they face threats such as habitat loss, poaching, and disease.
- Gorillas are capable of constructing nests for resting and sleeping, which they build each night using foliage and branches.
- Gorillas are known for their gentle nature and complex social interactions, displaying care and affection toward their family members.
Types and Habitats
There are two main species of gorillas: the Eastern Gorilla, which includes the Mountain Gorilla and the Eastern Lowland Gorilla, and the Western Gorilla, which includes the Western Lowland Gorilla and the Cross River Gorilla. Gorillas inhabit diverse habitats, including montane forests, lowland rainforests, and swamp forests.
FAQ
Explore the Fascinating World of This Animal Through These Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Gorillas can weigh anywhere between 200 to 400 pounds, with male gorillas (silverbacks) being larger and heavier than females.
Gorillas can stand up to five and a half feet tall when they are on all fours, and when standing upright, some males can reach a height of over six feet.
Gorillas are generally peaceful animals and exhibit non-aggressive behaviour towards humans and other animals. However, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened or during territorial disputes.
Gorillas have a lifespan of around 35 to 50 years in the wild. In captivity, they can live longer, with some individuals reaching their 50s or even 60s.
Gorillas communicate with each other using a combination of vocalizations, body postures, facial expressions, and gestures. While they can learn some basic signs in sign language, their communication with humans is limited.
Gorillas are native to the forests of central and eastern Africa. They can be found in countries such as Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Cameroon.
Yes, gorillas are classified as endangered species. Both the Eastern and Western Gorilla populations have been significantly affected by habitat loss, poaching, and other human-induced threats.
Yes, gorilla trekking experiences are available in some African countries where you can observe gorillas in their natural habitat. Our guided tours at TUSK Photo offer a unique opportunity to witness these incredible creatures up close while respecting their natural behaviours and environment.
Gorillas are herbivores and primarily eat leaves, shoots, stems, fruits, and other plant matter found in their natural habitat.