Ten facts about mountain gorillas

1. Gorillas share 98–99% of human DNA

They are our closest living relatives after chimpanzees and bonobos, making them incredibly intelligent and emotionally expressive.

2.There are two main species

Gorillas are divided into two species: the Eastern Gorilla and the Western Gorilla, each with two subspecies. The Mountain Gorilla, found in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the Virunga Mountains, is a subspecies of the Eastern Gorilla.

3.Gorillas live in tight family groups

Gorilla families typically consist of a dominant silverback male, several females, and their offspring. The silverback leads, protects, and makes decisions for the group.

5.They are gentle giants

Despite their size and strength, gorillas are generally calm and peaceful unless provoked or threatened. Aggression is rare and usually for defense.

6.Gorillas are herbivores

Their diet mainly consists of leaves, stems, fruit, and bamboo. They occasionally eat insects but do not hunt other animals.

7.They use tools in the wild

Gorillas have been observed using sticks to test water depth or logs to cross swampy areas a sign of advanced problem-solving skills.

7.Mountain gorillas can’t survive in captivity

Unlike their lowland cousins, mountain gorillas do not thrive in zoos or captivity, which makes protecting them in the wild even more important.

8.They are critically endangered

Due to habitat loss, poaching, disease, and conflict, gorillas are listed as endangered or critically endangered by the IUCN. Conservation efforts, including tourism, have helped some populations recover.

9.They communicate with over 20 vocalization

Gorillas use grunts, hoots, and chest-beating to convey information like warnings, comfort, or coordination during movement.

10.They are a top wildlife attraction in Uganda

Mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the most thrilling wildlife experiences in Africa, attracting travelers from around the globe.