The Western Gorilla: Physical features, habitat & Population.

The western gorilla, also scientifically called Gorilla gorilla is one of the two species of gorillas the other one being Eastern gorillas. The Western gorilla specie is further divided into two subspecies that is the western lowland gorilla and the Cross river gorilla.

The Western Gorilla inhabits the lowland rainforests of Central and West Africa with a significant population of them found in Cameroon, Gabon, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Nigeria, a home for Cross River gorillas.

The Western  Gorilla prefers inhabiting less dense forests, particularly the lowland tropical rainforests and swampy regions which are featured with an abundance of food resources.

The Western Gorilla Classification

Order: Primates

Family: Hominidae

Genus: Gorilla

Species: Gorilla gorilla

Key Characteristics of the Western Gorilla

Just like other fellow primates, western gorillas are as well social animals, living in groups called troops which is led by a dominant male, called a silverback.

These are relatively smaller groups comprising several females and offspring than the males.

The Western gorilla has a robust body covered in fur which adapts it to the nature of its natural habitats. Their fur is slightly lighter, shorter and brownish compared to that of mountain gorillas.

A western silverback Gorilla stands up to about  4.7 to 5.6 feet tall when standing upright and weighs up to about 450 pounds. Male gorillas often weigh between 300 to 450 pounds, while females, who are typically smaller, have an average weight of around 150 to 250 pounds.

Western silverbacks as well are distinguished by a patch of silver or gray hair that develops on their back as they get older, typically around 12 years of age and above.

Behavior and Diet of Western Gorillas

Western gorillas are typically diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. They often move on all fours, using their knuckles for support, a behavior called knuckle-walking, and occasionally on their two hind legs.

They use a variety of vocalizations such as screams, and runts for communication. They also use different gestures and facial expressions.

Western gorilla diet comprises mainly Fruits due to the suitable location of their habitats in lowlands which are rich in different fruits. They as well feed on leaves, stems, tree barks, shoots, seeds, and occasionally on invertebrates.

Western Gorilla Habitat

Western gorillas prefer inhabiting lowland less dense tropical rainforests and swampy regions.

This kind of habitat are often featured with abundant fruit-bearing trees and other vegetation that support western gorillas large dietary needs.

These forests provide ample cover and food resources which makes them a suitable habitat for these primate species.

Unfortunately, habitat destruction, logging, and agriculture have severely impacted the availability of their natural habitats, pushing them into smaller, fragmented areas.

Western Gorilla Population Status

Western gorillas are classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The western lowland gorilla is more common but still faces significant threats, while the Cross River gorilla has a population of fewer than 300 individuals remaining in the wild.

Factors contributing to the decline in the western gorilla population include habitat loss due to logging and agricultural expansion, poaching for bushmeat, and disease outbreaks, particularly Ebola, which has devastated some gorilla populations.

Western Lowland Gorilla

Western lowland gorillas, scientifically called Gorilla gorilla gorilla, are the smallest subspecies of gorillas. They are massive gorilla species with their males weighing between 300 to 450 pounds and standing 4.7 to 5.6 feet tall.

These gorillas have brownish-reddish fur with a silverback having a distinct silver airline on their backs.  Western lowland gorillas are found in the lowland rainforests of Central and West Africa, particularly in Cameroon, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo.

Despite their elusive nature, western lowland gorillas can be tracked in certain regions for conservation and ecotourism purposes, particularly in places like the Dzanga-Sangha Reserve in the Central African Republic.

Cross River Gorillas

Cross River gorillas, scientifically called Gorilla gorilla diehli, are the rarest and most critically endangered gorilla subspecies, with fewer than 300 individuals remaining in the wild.

They are similar in size to western lowland gorillas, with males weighing around 300 to 440 pounds and standing 4.7 to 5.6 feet tall. Their fur is typically dark gray to brownish, and males develop a silver patch on their backs as they mature.

Cross River gorillas inhabit the dense mountain forests along the Nigeria-Cameroon border.

Due to their small population and remote locations, they are elusive and difficult to track. However, some conservation efforts focus on protecting their habitat and occasionally monitoring them to ensure their survival in the wild.

Comparing Western Lowland Gorillas and Mountain Gorillas

Western lowland gorillas and mountain gorillas are two subspecies of gorillas, each with unique adaptations to their natural environments. While they share many similarities, they differ in physical traits, habitat preferences, behaviors, and conservation status.

1. Geographic Distribution

Western gorillas are found in the lowland tropical rainforests and swampy areas of Central and West Africa, particularly in countries like Gabon, Cameroon, the Republic of Congo, and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo. They prefer inhabiting lower altitudes, often near river systems and dense rainforests.

On the other hand,  mountain gorillas prefer inhabiting mountainous tropical forests of East-Central Africa, specifically in the Virunga Mountains, spanning Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda. They thrive at higher altitudes, between 8,000 to 13,000 feet above sea level.

2. Physical Traits

Male Western Gorillas stand about 4.7 to 5.6 feet when upright and weigh 300 to 450 pounds. Females are smaller, weighing around 150 to 250 pounds. They have a shorter less dense brownish fur which is best suited for their relatively warmer habitats.

The nose of western lowland gorillas is broader and flatter compared to that of mountain gorillas.

On the other hand, mountain gorillas are generally larger and more muscular, with a male standing about  5 to 6 feet tall and weighing up to 500 pounds or more. Females weigh between 200 to 250 pounds.

Mountain gorillas have longer, thicker fur, which helps them withstand the colder temperatures of the higher altitudes featured in their natural habitats.

The nose of mountain gorillas is less broad, with distinct nose prints used for identification.

3. Habitat

Western Gorillas prefer inhabiting dense, humid lowland rainforests, swamps, and forest edges. Their habitat is typically more fragmented because it can easily be accessed by humans hence making them more spread out geographically.

Mountain gorillas are found at high elevations in mountainous cloud forests with cooler temperatures. These forests are often misty, with abundant vegetation and bamboo, which is a key food source for them. Their habitat is more limited to a few protected areas, making them less spread out than western gorillas.

4. Behavior

Western lowland Gorillas live in smaller groups, usually led by a dominant male silverback, accompanied by several females and their offspring. Western gorillas are more arboreal, meaning they often climb trees in search of fruit, and they tend to travel longer distances daily for food.

Mountain Gorillas live in larger groups often ranging from 10 to 30 individuals. Each group is also led by a dominant silverback. They are more terrestrial, spending much of their time on the ground foraging for vegetation, as their mountainous environment offers abundant herbaceous plants.

5. Diet

Western lowland Gorillas are primarily frugivorous, meaning their diet is mostly fruit-based, supplemented by leaves, bark, and insects like termites and ants. Because of the abundance of fruit in their forested habitat, western gorillas have a more varied diet.

Mountain Gorilla diet is heavily reliant on leaves, stems, bamboo shoots, and tree barks. Due to the lack of fruit at higher altitudes, they depend on plant materials for the majority of their nutrition.

6. Conservation Status

Although western lowland gorillas are listed among the critically endangered species, their populations are much larger compared to those of mountain gorillas. The Cross River gorilla subspecies is especially rare, with fewer than 300 individuals left. Western gorillas face threats from habitat destruction, poaching, and diseases like Ebola.

Mountain Gorillas are endangered gorilla species with an estimated population of over 1,000 individuals left in the wild. Mountain gorillas face threats from habitat encroachment, poaching, and regional instability like that of Congo. However, their concentrated habitat in protected areas has enabled more focused conservation efforts.

7. Population

The population of western lowland gorillas is estimated to be around 100,000, though this number is rapidly decreasing due to the significant threats they face. The Cross River gorilla subspecies, however, is critically endangered with fewer than 300 individuals remaining.

Mountain Gorilla numbers with the intensive conservation efforts have risen up to over 1000 individuals living in the Virunga Mountains ranges and Bwindi Impenetrable forest.

What Is the Lifespan of a Western Gorilla in the Wild vs. Captivity?

The lifespan of a Western gorilla differs significantly between the wild and captivity, influenced by various environmental and biological factors.

In the Wild

Western gorillas in the wild typically live for 35 to 40 years, although some can reach up to 50 years. In their natural habitat, the lifespan of gorillas is shaped by factors like predation, disease, food availability, and the harshness of their environment. Infant mortality rates are higher in the wild due to disease and predation risks, and injuries from territorial conflicts can reduce life expectancy.

In Captivity

Gorillas in captivity, such as those in zoos or sanctuaries, tend to live longer, with many reaching 50 to 60 years and some even surpassing 60 years. In a controlled environment, they are protected from predators, provided with regular meals, and receive medical care. These conditions significantly reduce the impact of diseases and injuries, contributing to a longer lifespan. However, mental and emotional health can be affected due to the lack of natural stimuli and social interactions.

Factors Affecting Lifespan

The main factors influencing lifespan in both environments include diet, genetics, healthcare, and social structure. Gorillas in the wild may experience stress from human encroachment, whereas captive gorillas benefit from constant care but may suffer from the lack of natural behaviors and activities.

Gorilla Tourism: Ethical Guidelines for Visiting Western Gorillas

Gorilla tourism plays a critical role in conservation efforts for Western gorillas, but it must be approached with responsibility to ensure it benefits both the gorillas and the surrounding ecosystem. Responsible tourism promotes the welfare of wildlife and minimizes negative impacts on their natural habitat. When visiting gorilla sanctuaries or national parks, such as Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, travelers can make a meaningful difference by following ethical guidelines.

1. Responsible Behavior

Tourists should maintain a safe distance (at least 7 meters) from gorillas to avoid disturbing them or transmitting diseases. Physical contact should always be avoided. Limiting noise and movement also reduces stress on the animals, ensuring a more natural interaction.

2. Eco-Tourism’s Positive Impact

Eco-tourism generates revenue that supports local communities and contributes to habitat protection. Fees collected from gorilla trekking permits are directly funneled into conservation projects, including ranger patrols, habitat restoration, and anti-poaching efforts. Additionally, funds from tourism help empower local communities, providing them with jobs that align with sustainable practices.

3. Supporting Sanctuaries and Reserves

Visiting gorilla sanctuaries like Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund or The Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary helps raise awareness and contribute to research and rehabilitation of endangered gorillas. Tourists can participate in volunteering programs or donate to organizations involved in gorilla conservation, directly aiding the ongoing efforts to protect the species.

4. Education and Advocacy

Tourists should also educate themselves about the importance of conservation and share this knowledge with others. Responsible travelers act as advocates for gorilla protection, encouraging sustainable behaviors and contributing to the long-term survival of gorilla populations in the wild.

By visiting gorilla habitats with a focus on ethics, travelers play a vital role in preserving these incredible creatures for future generations.

Why are western lowland gorillas endangered?

Western gorillas, particularly the western lowland gorillas, face a variety of significant threats that have led to their endangered status. Here are some of the main threats:

1. Habitat Loss and Deforestation: Logging, agriculture, and human settlement expansion are major contributors to the destruction of the gorilla’s habitat in Central and West Africa. As forests are cleared, gorillas lose both their homes and their food sources.
2. Poaching: Despite being protected by law, western gorillas are still illegally hunted for bushmeat. Sometimes poaching is also linked to illegal wildlife trade, where gorillas are captured for zoos or private collectors.
3. Disease: Infectious diseases, particularly Ebola, have decimated western gorilla populations in certain regions. Gorillas are highly susceptible to Ebola, and outbreaks can result in massive die-offs.
4. Human-Wildlife Conflict: As human populations grow, people encroach on gorilla habitats. This can lead to direct conflicts, as gorillas sometimes raid crops for food. Farmers may retaliate by killing or injuring gorillas to protect their livelihoods.
5. Climate Change: Changes in climate can affect the availability of food and water for gorillas, making their survival more difficult. Shifts in weather patterns can also intensify habitat destruction and alter the ecosystems gorillas depend on.
6. Mining: The demand for natural resources like oil, gas, and minerals (e.g., coltan, used in electronics) is driving mining activities that contribute to deforestation and habitat fragmentation. Mining operations can also lead to increased human activity in gorilla habitats, further disrupting their environment.

Conservation efforts are ongoing to address these threats, including anti-poaching patrols, protected areas, and disease monitoring. However, continued action is essential to secure the future of western gorillas.