7 Unique Facts about Mountain Gorillas
In the heart of the Virunga mountain Ranges of Central Africa, lay the gentle giant apes. These gentle giants are a source of endless fascination and awe for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike. There are approximately 1056 individuals left making them a critically endangered species. In this article, we will discuss some 7 Unique facts about Mountain Gorillas.
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Close DNA with Humans
It is proven by scientists that Chimpanzees and Mountain gorillas share an astounding 98% of their DNA with humans, making them one of our closest living relatives with a lot of common physical traits. These traits can be observed from their facial similarities, their thinking, how they nurture their little ones, intricate social structures, and even their susceptibility to human diseases. Witnessing these human-like behaviors in the wild is a breathtaking opportunity and a one-in-a-lifetime experience for those who take a journey to see these creatures in the dense forests of Africa.
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High Intelligence
Mountain gorillas exhibit remarkable intelligence and emotional depth. This is exhibited in the way their way of communication in different vocal tones, body gestures, and facial expressions. Each gorilla has a unique personality which is most times used by researchers and trackers to identify each individual. Their social interactions often resemble those of human families, with clear leadership (family head) strong bonds, and care for one another
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Feeding behaviors
Mountain gorillas are mostly herbivorous with diets consisting mainly of leaves, stems, pith, and shoots. They are selective foragers, often choosing the most nutritious plant parts with apparent knowledge of their dietary needs. An adult male can consume up to 34 kilograms of vegetation a day and is often sighted enjoying shoots of bamboo by those who track them.
.However, the diet of mountain gorillas changes with the seasons. During the wet season, they feast on a variety of succulent plants, and during the dry season, they often climb trees to reach fruits, which are a significant source of water. Interestingly, gorillas rarely feed on flowers and sometimes complement their diets with a few insects.
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Body Structure
An Adult mountain gorilla is large and powerful with adult males weighing between 135 to 180 kilograms and females from 68 to 113 kilograms. They have long thick fur which covers their full bodies except the face, palms, and feet helping them to stay warm in the cold mountains. The fur varies in color depending on the age of the gorillas. The silver backs usually get the dominant silver stripe on their backs at the age of 12, this usually indicates that they have matured and can easily take dominance of the family. Adult Mountain gorillas have a big mounted forehead with a big flat nose, broad chests powerful long arms, and strong short firm legs which help them to climb with ease and loom freely in the impenetrable forest.
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Endangered
Mountain gorillas were recently classified as critically endangered species with less than 1000 individuals surviving, however, due to vigorous conservation and restoration campaigns, they have been able to move from critically endangered. Habitat loss, poaching, and disease had posed a significant threat to their survival.
Conservation efforts have been put in place to help conserve and aid in increasing their numbers like the Dian Fossey Fund and gorilla tourism. By visiting these Gorillas in their natural habitat, tourists contribute to the economy and provide the financial incentive to preserve these gentle animals.
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Gorilla trekking Cost
A gorilla permit is a document that allows you to track these animals in their habitat. They are only issued by government authorities in the countries where gorilla tourism is carried out. This permit only allows you to interact with the gorillas for an hour to watch them do their daily tasks and after, the family is left to enjoy its private life. Costs of Gorilla Permits in USD
Uganda Rwanda DRC
800 1500 400
To enjoy gorilla tracking for more than one hour, you can opt for gorilla habituation, this is only limited to 4 people and lasts for 4 hours. The four people accompany the researchers, veterinaries, and trackers who teach these animals how to get used to human presence. The habituation process takes almost 2 hours before this family is open to trackers. Gorilla habituation in Uganda costs 1500 USD and is offered in the Rushaga sector. Pakasa Tours and Safari can help you to arrange for your gorilla habituation permit.
However, Research plays a crucial role in understanding the needs and behaviors of mountain gorillas, which in turn informs conservation strategies. Dian Fossey’s groundbreaking work has left an enduring legacy and current research by Dr Gladys Kalema’s findings; help ensure that these animals continue to thrive peacefully.
Mountain gorillas are a true wonder of nature, with these 7 Unique facts about Mountain Gorillas. You get a deeper understanding of their intelligence, physical appearance, social structures, and unique dietary habits by taking a Safari to Uganda, Rwanda or Dr Congo.