Mountain gorilla are one of the two subspecies of the eastern gorillas. There are two populations of gorillas. One is found in the three national parks of Mgahinga in Uganda, the Volcanoes in Rwanda and Virunga in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the second one is found in Bwindi impenetrable national park in Uganda
Mountain gorillas are man’s closest relative. They live in the tropical rain forest of central Africa. They have thicker and longer furs which suits them in colder temperature. Adult males are called silver backs because of a saddle of silver colored hair which developed on their back due to old age. Silver defend the group from any attack or threat even with his own life. They are very aggressive especially when two groups meet, the two silver backs fight to near death. This aggression is minimal within the group, although they are aggressive, mountain gorillas also have great fear especially when they encounter with reptiles like crocodiles, snakes, chameleons and caterpillars. among others
Mountain gorillas are land-dwelling however the often climb on the tree branches to look for fruits. Like all apes apart from human, mountain gorillas have longer arms than their legs and this makes them to swing on top of tree branches without falling. They climb on fruiting trees that can support their weight.Mountain gorillas are most active between 6:00am to 6:00pm. They use their morning hours to look for food and late morning or mid-day to rest. Resting among mountain gorillas is very important has they use that time to create relationship among the group. After resting, in the afternoon, the gorillas go back to look for food before retiring to sleep at night.
Mountain gorillas are mainly herbivorous. They feed on leaves, steams, shoots and fruits and some time on barks, flowers, roots and invertebrates. For those looking to adventures in Africa, gorilla tracking safaris can be done in Bwindi impenetrable national park and in Mgahinga national park.Uganda safaris have half of the world population of mountain gorillas and Most of the tourists during their safaris in Uganda enjoy the adventure activity of tracking gorillas. Tracking the critically endangered mountain gorillas is one of the exciting experience tourists have in Uganda safari. While tracking the gorillas, tourists can also sight different species of birds and other primates. Therefore make your trip exciting and the most memorable by engaging in gorilla safari.
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