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Gorilla

The Western Lowland Gorilla lives in troops of up to 30 gorillas. The groups are usually harmonious since there are no marked friendships between gorillas in a group. Distinct friendships can lead to jealousies and squabbling.

The leader of the group will usually be a dominant silverback male. In large groups there may be more than one silverback. These include younger non-dominant males who may eventually move off and live solitary lives. A male may kidnap a female gorilla from another group and begin a new troop.

Males exhibit aggressive behaviour by vocalising. The silverback stands on his hind legs and throws leaves and twigs into the air. He then beats his chest with his hands and runs back and forth tearing up the vegetation. The finale is beating the ground with the palms of his hands. This intimidating behaviour is used to threaten outsiders and often gives the impression that the gorilla is fiercer than it actually is.

Did you know?

There are three gorilla subspecies: the Mountain Gorilla, the Eastern Lowland Gorilla and the Western Lowland Gorilla. All are found in the Western part of Africa.
When excited and pleased, gorillas giggle in almost the same way that humans do.
Young gorillas are very playful, tickling and chasing each other. At the Zoo they play with special ‘gorilla proof’ toys.
Baby gorillas are quite similar to human babies, and have the same needs, such as physical touching, security and lots of opportunities to play.
When gorillas are upset or threatened they show it by coughing.
Melbourne Zoo’s Gorillas are usually asleep by 7.00pm and wake at about 7.00 am the next morning.