SoTen 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 have two main Species, and these include Eastern Gorilla and the Western Gorilla, these two species are also divided 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

Gorillas are calm and peaceful species unless provoked or threatened despite their weight and height. Aggression is rare and usually done for defence.

6.Gorillas are herbivores

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

7.They use tools in the wild

Gorillas use sticks to test water depth or logs to cross swampy areas a sign of problem-solving.

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. [caption id="attachment_1276" align="alignleft" width="2048"] An Infant in the Forest of Bwindi[/caption]

8. Gorillas are endangered

 Due to habitat loss, poaching from the people around the park, disease, and conflict. These makes Gorillas get endangered.

Conservation efforts, including tourism, have helped some populations recover.

[caption id="attachment_1377" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] A Gorilla Enjoying the Jungle[/caption]

9. They communicate with over 20 vocalizations

So, Gorillas use grunts, and hoots as a form of their communication to others.

And also, chest-beating to convey information like warnings, comfort, or coordination during movement.

[caption id="attachment_965" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] An infant enjoying the Ride[/caption]

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.