Why Are Gorillas Called the Great Apes?
Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are great apes because they are the world’s largest living primates, exhibiting many human-like behaviours and emotions such as laughter and sadness. There are two species of gorillas-Great Apes: eastern gorillas and western gorillas, which further divide into four subspecies: eastern lowland gorillas, western lowland gorillas, mountain gorillas, and Cross River gorillas. Sharing 98.3% of their genetic code with humans, gorillas are our closest relatives after chimpanzees and bonobos. They can stand between 1.5 to 1.7 meters tall, with female western gorillas (great apes) weighing up to 72 kilograms and males up to 180 kilograms. Eastern gorillas are slightly larger, with females weighing up to 100 kilograms and males up to 210 kilograms.
Where Can I Trek Gorillas-Great Apes?
Gorillas inhabit central and eastern Africa, living in regions with vast rainforests. They are primarily herbivores, consuming up to 30kg of plants daily, though some subspecies also eat insects and snails. In Uganda, gorillas -great apes can be found in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park. In Rwanda, gorilla trekking is conducted in Volcanoes National Park, and in the Democratic Republic of Congo, lowland gorillas are found in Virunga National Park.
How Do Gorillas- Great Apes Live?
Great Apes – Gorillas live in family groups called troops, usually consisting of around 30 members, led by a dominant male known as a silverback. The bond between the silverback and his females forms the foundation of gorilla social life. Females reach sexual maturity around seven or eight years old but start breeding a few years later, while males mature even later.
What Is the Gestation Period of Great Apes Gorillas?
Once breeding begins, a female great ape- gorilla will likely give birth to one baby every four to six years, totaling only three or four offspring in her lifetime. This low reproduction rate makes population recovery challenging for gorillas – Great Apes. Known for their intelligence, gorillas have been observed making and using tools!
Are Gorillas-Great Apes Intelligent?
Scientists have observed wild gorillas using sticks to gauge the depth of rivers and streams, creating bamboo ladders to help baby gorillas reach treetops, and even crafting utensils from twigs to scoop up insects and termites.
What Do Great Apes Gorillas Eat?
Gorillas spend a quarter of their day foraging for food, mainly leaves, fruits, and stems. With a lifespan of up to 40 years, they have ample time to learn and adapt.
Where Do Great Apes Gorillas Live?
Mountain gorillas, discovered by the scientific community in 1902, inhabit forests as high as 4,100 meters above sea level. While the mountain gorilla population is increasing, the other three subspecies remain critically endangered. Together, we can help protect these incredible creatures.
How Much Is a Gorilla Permit?
In Uganda, a gorilla-great apes trekking permit costs $800 USD. In Rwanda, it is $1,500 USD, and in the DRC, it costs $400 USD.
How Do I Pay for Gorilla Trekking?
You can pay for great Apes-gorilla trekking through a registered and licensed tour operator such as Bugoli Adventures Limited.
Where Can I Book a Gorilla Permit?
To book a gorilla permit, you can email Bugoli Adventures at info@bugoliadventures.com or info@visitbwindigorillatours.com. You can also send a WhatsApp message to +256781524064 or +256394511092. If you are in Uganda, visit their office at Room 15, Southwestern Umbrella of Water and Sanitation Building, Plot 110 Mbarara Road, Kabale, Southwestern Uganda, East Africa.
