Are Gorillas Aggressive? The details of great apes
Gorillas can be dangerous at times. They may attack people or other animals if they are left alone because they are wild animals that are not used to interacting with humans. However, you may have noticed in some articles claiming that gorillas are harmless. However, that is only partly true.
Although gorillas rarely attack without being provoked, they may do so to protect themselves if they feel threatened or encroached. Indeed, they often run away from people when they come near. Although they are generally kind and reticent, it is not advisable to approach one. These gorillas can be ferocious and unpredictable at times.
Even though they weigh an average of 250 pounds, they can still overcome the toughest human in a fistfight. They can also use their long canines to bite off animal flesh. Please avoid making actions that can imply an impression that you are a threat to one if you ever see one, whether it is in the wild or in captivity.
Signs of Aggression
The following below are different signs of aggression that gorillas can do.
Vocalization. To demonstrate their authority or ward off danger, gorillas may yell, grunt, or beat their chests.
Body Language
Gorillas may demonstrate different aggressive bodily postures, like standing upright, swaying, or puffing out their chest mainly to portray they have perceived the situation. Additionally, they could make bodily signals like charging at an intruder or slapping the ground.
Physical Confrontation: Although it is uncommon, gorillas are capable of direct physical assault. This might entail charging, grappling, or using their strong arms to strike.
WHEN DO GORILLAS BECOME AGGRESSIVE?
Habitat loss
Human encroachment and habitat damage in the wild can exacerbate stress and hostility. Gorillas may grow more aggressive and territorial toward other groups or people as they are forced into smaller, more fragmented environments.
Environmental Stressors
This is among the main factors that can influence gorillas to portray their aggression factors. Gorillas kept in captivity without enough room, stimulation, or socialization opportunities may behave more aggressively. Aggression and dissatisfaction can result from stress brought on by congestion or a lack of stimulation.
Human Interference: Gorillas in close contact with humans may become agitated by human presence or mistreatment. In the wild, gorillas that have encountered humans regularly might start associating humans with danger or food, which can increase their likelihood of reacting aggressively.
THE GORILLA TREKKING EXPERINCE
Gorilla trekking starts very early in the morning at the park head quarters with a briefing. The briefing offers a detailed guide about the do and don’ts to follow while in the forest.
After the briefing you will join a group of 8 people with your ranger guides to go and trek the gorillas. You will pass through steep slopes, rugged terrains as you spot different monkey species and bird species.
Upon meeting up with these gorillas, only one hour is offered to you to spend with these gorillas. The one hour includes taking photos, viewing them feed, walk, play and many more. Gorilla trekking is among the activities that offer a once in lifetime experience and unforgettable memories.