Gorilla adaptations are a bit different. How does a gorilla adapt to its environment? Mountain gorillas are herbivores and survive mainly by eating plants and fruits.
Mountain gorillas share over 98% of human DNA. They are found in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo — in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Virunga National Park.
So how do gorillas adapt to the environment? I explain all the facts you need to know in this article.
The herbivorous nature of mountain gorillas has made it easy for them to live in the rain-forest.
Plants contain cellulose, a part that is not digestible by many animals. Herbivorous animals do not chew cud but depend on colon bacteria to break down the cellulose and turn it into carbohydrates through a process called fermentation.
How have gorillas adapted to the rain-forest?
A rain-forest has many plants, which makes it easy for mountain gorillas to feed. Gorillas move from one place to another in the forest while searching for fresh plants.
Because there is so much vegetation, they don’t need to move long distances. They usually move short distances within their home areas, especially when some parts run out of food.
The thick fur on a gorilla’s body protects them from insect bites and keeps them warm, even when it rains. Mountain areas are usually cold, but gorillas stay warm because of their hair.
In the Virunga Mountains, temperatures are very cold at night. Many times it drops below freezing, but gorillas still survive comfortably.
During the rainy season, gorillas do not move far from where they sleep. They stay close and keep still for a few hours to stay warm.
When you go on a Uganda or Rwanda gorilla trekking trip, you will see many of these behaviors.
More about gorilla adaptations – How do gorillas survive in the rain-forest?
Mountain gorillas have many traits that help them live in Africa’s rainforests. Their long arms and short legs give them a natural walking position on all fours, which reduces stress on their bones and joints because of their big size.
They walk on their knuckles and the palms of their feet. They can walk upright for only a short time.
Their large size keeps them safe from predators. Gorillas are very strong and have thick bones. It is hard for other animals to attack them.
Their size also helps them climb steep areas when looking for food like plants and fruits.
Gorillas use their fingers to pick fruits and their large bodies to protect their food. They do not chase or kill animals for food.
Communication
Gorillas communicate in many ways. They use gestures, body language, and sounds depending on the situation.
They also use their facial expressions to show emotions. Looking straight into a gorilla’s eyes is seen as a challenge. Bowing down shows respect.
Protecting themselves
Mountain gorillas are very careful and secretive. They use their sense of smell and hearing to detect danger and quietly run away and hide.
Some gorillas, mostly silverbacks, come out to face the threat. Silverbacks are the leaders and fight to protect their position and pride.
Gorillas are big and strong. Many animals are afraid of them.
The peaceful ones climb up hills or mountains to avoid danger. They do not like fighting, and if they face trouble, they usually back off and walk away.
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