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Western Gorilla

Gorilla gorilla

Western Gorillas are large, gentle giants that live in the forests of Africa. They are very social animals and love to spend time with their families in groups called troops.

Habitat: Forests

Appearance

The Western Gorilla has a stocky build with thick, dark grey or black fur. Males develop a reddish-brown cap on their head and a silver back as they age, making them visually distinct from other gorilla species.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassMammaliaOrderPrimatesFamilyHominidaeGenusGorilla
Western Gorilla
furry trait badgesocial trait badgeherbivorous trait badgetool_use trait badge
Western Gorilla

Category

Mammals

Rarity

Rare

Danger

3/5 · Moderate

Snaps

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Interesting facts

A male gorilla's back turns silver when he gets older, earning him the name 'silverback'. Wow!

Despite their huge size, Western Gorillas are generally shy and peaceful, preferring to avoid trouble. Wow!

Just like humans have fingerprints, each Western Gorilla has a totally unique nose print! Wow!

They give each other a gentle 'kiss' as a way to greet and show comfort within their family group. Wow!

Special abilities

Ability

Powerful Knuckle-Walker

Western Gorillas can walk on their knuckles because it helps them move quickly and efficiently through dense forest environments.

Ability

Complex Communicator

Western Gorillas have a wide range of vocalizations, gestures, and facial expressions that help them talk to each other.

Ability

Master Nest Builder

Western Gorillas build a new, cozy nest every evening, either in trees or on the ground, that helps them sleep safely.

Measurements & details

Length
120-170 cm
Weight
60-270 kg
Lifespan
30-50 years
Top Speed
40 km/h
Litter Size
1
Gestation
250-260 days

Diet & Feeding

Western Gorillas mostly munch on leaves, stems, and fruits, but sometimes enjoy a few tasty bugs!

Primary Foods

  • Leaves
  • Stems
  • Fruit
  • Bark
  • Pith
  • Termites

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

eaten by

Leopard

Panthera pardus

Juvenile gorillas can be prey for leopards.

depends on

Hog Plum

Spondias mombin

Gorillas eat its fruits and help spread its seeds.

eats

Congo Marantochloa

Marantochloa congensis

This is a common leafy plant in their diet.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

3/5 · Moderate

Always observe gorillas from a safe distance and never approach them in the wild.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Western Gorilla?

120-170 cm

How much does Western Gorilla weigh?

60-270 kg

How long does Western Gorilla live?

30-50 years

How fast can Western Gorilla move?

40 km/h

What does Western Gorilla eat?

Western Gorillas mostly munch on leaves, stems, and fruits, but sometimes enjoy a few tasty bugs!

Where is Western Gorilla usually found?

Forests

How does Western Gorilla hunt?

Foraging

How many babies does Western Gorilla usually have?

1

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