gorilla

Gorillas are the largest living primates after humans, belonging to the genus Gorilla. There are two widely recognized species: Gorilla gorilla, the western gorilla, and Gorilla beringei, the eastern gorilla. The western species has two subspecies, the western lowland gorilla (G. g. gorilla) and the Cross River gorilla (G. g. diehli); the eastern species has the mountain gorilla (G. b. beringei) and the eastern lowland gorilla (G. b. graueri).

Gorillas are native to equatorial Africa, inhabiting dense tropical forests and, for mountain gorillas, montane forests and bamboo zones at higher elevations. Western gorillas range across forests of west and central Africa, while eastern gorillas inhabit the forests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Rwanda, and nearby areas.

Physically, gorillas have broad chests, long arms, and dark hair. Adult males reach roughly 1.6 to 1.8 meters in height when standing and weigh about 140 to 200 kilograms; females are substantially smaller. They are primarily terrestrial and move by knuckle-walking, though they climb when needed. Gorillas are highly social and form stable groups.

Gorillas live in social groups called troops, led by a silverback, an adult male who protects the group and makes decisions. Troops typically include one or more adult females and their offspring, with group sizes commonly ranging from five to ten individuals. The silverback may spend time with bachelor groups as well.

Dietary in nature, gorillas are primarily herbivorous, consuming fruit, leaves, stems, and shoots; they may also eat bark, flowers, and occasionally insects. Reproduction involves a single infant after a gestation of about eight and a half months. Infants cling to the mother for several months, and weaning occurs around three to four years. Lifespan in the wild is commonly 35 to 40 years; in captivity, longer.

Conservation: Gorillas are listed as endangered by the IUCN, with some subspecies classified as critically endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and disease. Conservation measures include protected habitats, anti-poaching patrols, and veterinary interventions.