Western Lowland Gorillaニシローランドゴリラ

Species Data

Classification

Primates / Hominidae Source

Distribution

The western lowland gorilla inhabits montane and lowland tropical forests across Central Africa, including Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and Cabinda (Angola). Source

Did You Know?

• Wild individuals have been observed using tools, such as branches for measuring water depth or extracting ants. Source
• Mature males develop a patch of silvery-grey hair across the back and rump, earning the nickname "silverback," and typically lead the group. Source
• An Ebola outbreak in 2003–2004 devastated some populations, killing roughly two-thirds of gorillas in affected areas. Source

FAQ

Why is the western lowland gorilla critically endangered despite having a large population?

Even with an estimated 125,000 individuals remaining, the population has suffered severe losses from Ebola outbreaks, commercial bushmeat hunting, and habitat destruction, all of which continue to threaten its long-term survival. Source

What is a silverback?

A silverback is a mature male gorilla that has developed a patch of silvery-grey hair on its back, a sign of maturity, and typically serves as the leader of its family group. Source

What do western lowland gorillas eat?

They are primarily herbivorous, eating roots, shoots, fruit, wild celery, and tree bark, with the balance between fruit and leafy vegetation shifting seasonally. Source