Mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) are among the rarest and most awe-inspiring primates on Earth. Found only in the dense forests of Central Africa, these gentle giants captivate scientists and travelers alike. Here are 10 incredible facts about them:
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They Live in Only Two Isolated Regions
Mountain gorillas are found in just two locations on Earth:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda)
Virunga Massif (a volcanic mountain range spanning Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo)
There are no mountain gorillas in zoos they survive only in the wild.
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They Are Critically Endangered
With only about 1,063 left in the wild (as of 2023), they are classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN. Conservation efforts (like anti-poaching patrols and tourism) have helped their numbers slowly increase.
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They Share 98% of Human DNA
Mountain gorillas are one of our closest living relatives, sharing 98% genetic similarity with humans. Their social structures, emotions, and even some facial expressions resemble ours.
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Silverbacks Lead Family Groups
Each gorilla family is led by a dominant silverback male (named for the silver hair on his back). He protects the group, settles disputes, and decides when to move for food.
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They Are Mostly Vegetarian
Their diet consists of:
Leaves, stems, and shoots (85%)
Fruits (10%)
Insects, ants, and snails (5%)
An adult male can eat up to 30kg (66lbs) of vegetation daily
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They Build Nests Every Night
Like chimpanzees, gorillas construct nests from branches and leaves to sleep in either on the ground or in trees. They make a new one each evening
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Trekking Helps Save Them Gorilla
Tourism is a key conservation tool Permit fees (up to $800 in Uganda, $1,500 in Rwanda) fund:
Anti-poaching efforts
Community projects
Ranger salaries
This makes gorillas worth more alive than dead to local communities.
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They Have Unique Nose Prints
Each gorilla has a distinct nose pattern, much like human fingerprints. Researchers use these to identify individuals in the wild.
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Infants Stay Close to Their Mothers
Baby gorillas cling to their mothers for 2-3 years and nurse for up to 4 years. They learn survival skills by imitating adults.
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Dian Fossey Made Them Famous
Primatologist Dian Fossey (of Gorillas in the Mist fame) dedicated her life to studying and protecting them. Her work in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park helped bring global attention to their plight.
Final Thought: Why They Matter
Mountain gorillas are keystone species their survival helps maintain forest ecosystems. Thanks to conservation, their numbers are slowly rising, proving that human effort can reverse extinction threats.
Want to see them in the wild? Uganda and Rwanda offer life-changing gorilla trekking experiences!
Did You Know? The oldest known mountain gorilla, Titus, lived to 35 years in Rwanda a remarkable lifespan for a wild gorilla!
conclusion
Choosing a reputable Uganda tourist guide company for your gorilla trekking adventure isn’t just convenient it’s transformative. From expert-led treks in Bwindi’s misty forests to seamless logistics and ethical tourism practices, a guided tour ensures your journey is as rewarding for you as it is for conservation.
Get in touch with our expert travel consultants today and inquire about or book a tour, lodge or car securely online. Send email to info@ugandatouristguide.com or you can talk directly to us through +256 392911059 or +1 (818) 2906623 (USA)
