Scientists estimate that there are about 600 individuals, living in 2 populations of about 300 each, separated by about 20 miles. Mountain gorillas are one of the most endangered animals in the world. Do gorillas also recognize this ancient connection?” “No one who looks into a gorilla’s eyes - intelligent, gentle, vulnerable - can remain unchanged, for the gap between ape and human vanishes we know that the gorilla still lives within us. As George Schaller, one of the world’s leading gorilla researchers, has written: We seem to have a special affinity for these animals despite our differences.

Humans did not evolve from gorillas rather, humans and gorillas simply took separate evolutionary paths about 10 million years ago. Large mountain gorilla males patiently allow young gorillas to climb all over them without a murmur of protest, and they are not aggressive toward humans unless they are threatened.Īs primates, humans and gorillas share a common ancestor. Mountain gorillas are easygoing vegetarians who lead a peaceful, playful life. While it is true that they are large, powerful creatures, they are also gentle and affectionate. Gorillas are one of the most feared animals in the world. Threats: Poaching / Pollution / Human Intrusion / Invasive Species / War / Climate Change Beringei)Ĭonservation Status: Endangered (2021 IUCN Red List) Name: Mountain Gorilla ( Gorilla beringei ssp.

Male mountain gorilla