A very peaceful giant

In the mountains of Virunga, central Africa, live the largest primates in the world – gorillas.

Despite the fact that these beings are represented in the movies as ferocious beasts that beat their chests and roar when they show their fearsome teeth; The truth is that mountain gorillas are very peaceful animals, capable of showing human emotions such as laughter and crying. These fascinating animals live in social groups led by a dominant male known as a “silverback”. Although over the years the fur on the backs of all males changes from black to silver, only the strongest male becomes leader. The leadership of the group carries many responsibilities, such as protecting the family group or troop and finding food.

Fun facts

• There are only about 800 mountain gorillas left. This species is critically endangered due to illegal hunting, habitat loss, and disease.
• Gorillas are herbivores, spending most of the day foraging for food and eating leafy plants. However, on occasion, they will eat small insects or worms. Adult gorillas can eat up to 30 kilograms of food per day.
• Gorillas love to rest and relax when they are not foraging. At dusk, the lightest gorillas sleep on the branches of the trees, the babies with their mothers, and the heaviest gorillas remain on the ground.
• Young male gorillas usually leave their family group when the fur on their backs turns silver, at about 11 years of age.
• A gorilla can live between 35 and 40 years.
• Gorillas are considered very intelligent animals. They are known for their use of tools and their communication. Some captive gorillas have learned to use sign language from humans.