Gorilla
Gorilla gorilla - Western Gorilla
Gorilla beringei - Eastern Gorilla
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The
Gorilla, the largest of the
primates, is a ground-dwelling
herbivore that inhabits the
forests of central west
Africa.
Gorillas move about by knuckle-walking. Males range in height from 1.65 m to 1.75 m, and in weight from 140 kg to 165 kg. Females are about half the weight of males.
Gestation is 8-1/2 months. There are typically 3-4 years between births. Infants stay with their mothers for 3-4 years. Females mature at 10-12 years (earlier in captivity); males 11-13 years, sometimes sooner if they assume leadership early. Lifespan is between 30-50 years.
The Gorilla is an
endangered species, and has been subject to intense
poaching for a long time. Threats to Gorilla survival include habitat destruction and the
bushmeat trade.
Primatologists continue to explore the relationships between various gorilla populations. The most recent publication (
Primate Taxonomy, Colin Groves
2001 ISBN 1-56098-872-X) lists two recognized
species, with four
subspecies:
Gorilla gorilla, Western Gorilla
- Gorilla gorilla gorilla Western Lowland Gorilla
- Gorilla gorilla diehli
Gorilla beringei, Eastern Gorilla
- Gorilla beringei beringei, Mountain Gorilla
- Gorilla beringei graueri, Eastern Lowland Gorilla
Gorillas in pop culture
- The gorilla suit is an eternally popular gag costume. On The Zone on YTV, a recurring character is Gorilla Stan, who is actually a person wearing a cheap Halloween costume.
- The giant gorilla is a recurring theme in film, especially in the various incarnations of King Kong and Mighty Joe Young.
See also
