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What is a Gorilla?

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

Gorillas are the largest primates alive today. They live throughout Africa, and are divided into subspecies dependent on their environmental habitats. Gorillas are considered extremely intelligent, and studies have observed their use of tools and sophisticated group dynamics.

At birth, a gorilla weighs four or five lbs (1.8-2.2 kg) and remains dependent on its mother for about six years. Adult male gorillas typically weigh between 300-500 lbs (137-227 kg) and achieve a height of around five and a half to six feet (1.7-1.8 m.) Females are far smaller than males, usually weighing between 150-200 lbs (68-91 kg) and rarely more than five feet (1.5 m) tall. The coloration of gorillas varies between subspecies, ranging from nearly black in Eastern Mountain gorillas to reddish-brown in the Western Lowland subspecies.

Gorillas are the largest primates alive today.
Gorillas are the largest primates alive today.

Gorillas live in family groups, comprised of 5-20 animals. The leader of the group is an adult male called a silverback, in reference to the distinct silver patch that appears on male gorillas after age 12. Around age 11, most male gorillas break off from their group and try to attract mates to form their own family. Males younger than 12 are called blackbacks, and follow the silverback’s lead until they choose to leave, although they occasionally attempt to overthrow the senior male and assume charge of the group. Studies show that hostile takeovers are rare, and group leadership usually changes only when the silverback dies of disease or is killed by poachers.

Research into gorillas who died from the ebola virus may help make medical breakthroughs for people who contract the disease.
Research into gorillas who died from the ebola virus may help make medical breakthroughs for people who contract the disease.

The diet of the gorilla is generally herbivorous, but they are occasionally sighted eating small insects. Mostly, they subsist on fruit, young plant shoots and leaves. Because they must constantly eat, gorillas spend much of their time on the move, searching for new food sources. Their simple diet is in direct contrast to early portrayals of behavior, which suggested these usually gentle primates were fierce hunters with inherently violent natures.

A study conducted in 2005 confirmed the common belief that gorillas sometimes make use of tools, similar to chimpanzees. Female gorillas in the Republic of Congo were observed using sticks to discover the depth of bodies of water, and making crude bridges from tree stumps. Other gorillas were seen using rocks to smash open nuts. Tool usage is believed to be indicative of high intelligence, and the recent findings have caused some experts to reassess their opinion of the species brain capacity.

One famous gorilla, named Koko, was able to learn a form of sign language to communicate with handlers. Experts differ on whether Koko’s abilities meant that she truly speaks the language or simply has learned to use it for rewards. Handlers insist that Koko invents words herself, combining signs she already knows for more complex definitions. Koko also is known for keeping cats as pets, expressing caring behavior such as petting and grooming them.

All subspecies of gorilla are listed as endangered by various US and international wildlife agencies. Habitat destruction and persistent poaching in gorilla sanctuaries are seen as main contributors to the dire situation of the species. In 2004, a population of several hundred gorillas died from an outbreak of the Ebola virus. Recent studies suggest the species may be particularly sensitive to Ebola, and more than 5,000 animals are believed to have died from it.

Many organizations are dedicated to conservation efforts for gorilla species. If you wish to aid attempts to the species, donation and volunteer opportunities are readily available. Many zoos also offer adopt-a-gorilla programs, with proceeds going to fund research and conservation of these giant primates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a gorilla and where can it be found in the wild?

Gorillas are large apes that are native to the forests of central Sub-Saharan Africa. According to the World Wildlife Fund, they primarily inhabit the dense forests and mountainous regions of countries like Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They are ground-dwelling and predominantly herbivorous, living in social groups led by a dominant male known as a silverback.

How many species of gorillas are there?

There are two species of gorillas: the eastern gorilla and the western gorilla, each with two subspecies. The eastern gorilla comprises the mountain gorilla and the eastern lowland gorilla, while the western gorilla includes the western lowland gorilla and the Cross River gorilla. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists both species as critically endangered.

What do gorillas typically eat and how much?

Gorillas are predominantly herbivores, eating a variety of plants, including leaves, stems, fruit, and bamboo. Some gorillas, like the western lowland gorilla, also consume small insects. An adult male can eat up to 40 pounds of vegetation a day, as per the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Their diet is high in fiber and they have a longer digestive tract to process this plant material efficiently.

How do gorillas communicate with each other?

Gorillas have a complex system of communication that includes vocalizations, body postures, and facial expressions. They use over 25 different sounds to convey messages, ranging from grunts and barks to more subtle noises for social interactions. According to research, these sounds can indicate anything from contentment to alarm, helping to maintain group cohesion and warn of potential threats.

What is the typical social structure of a gorilla group?

A typical gorilla group, known as a troop, is composed of one dominant male, multiple females, and their offspring. The dominant male, or silverback, is responsible for the safety and well-being of the troop. He makes decisions on movement, mediates conflicts, and protects the group from predators or rival gorilla groups. The social structure is generally peaceful and cooperative.

What conservation efforts are in place to protect gorillas?

Conservation efforts for gorillas include anti-poaching patrols, habitat preservation, and community engagement initiatives. Organizations like the World Wildlife Fund and the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund work tirelessly to safeguard gorillas and their habitats. Additionally, ecotourism provides economic incentives for local communities to protect gorillas, while international laws and agreements aim to regulate hunting and trade of gorilla products.

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a AllThingsNature writer.

Learn more...
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a AllThingsNature writer.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon27652

Who was the first human to successfully get close to a gorilla?

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    • Gorillas are the largest primates alive today.
      By: francesca333
      Gorillas are the largest primates alive today.
    • Research into gorillas who died from the ebola virus may help make medical breakthroughs for people who contract the disease.
      By: Sherry Young
      Research into gorillas who died from the ebola virus may help make medical breakthroughs for people who contract the disease.