11 Interesting Gorilla Facts You Might Not Know

Gorillas are more than just powerful figures of the jungle. They're creatures full of fascinating secrets and stories. 

In this article, we’re peeling back their layers with interesting gorilla facts. You'll discover aspects of their lives that are both astonishing and insightful. 

#1: How Big Are Gorillas?

One of the most interesting facts about gorillas is their size. Adult male gorillas, known as silverbacks, can weigh up to 400 pounds and stand about 6 feet tall when upright. Their sheer physical presence, with broad chests and muscular arms, truly sets them apart. 

#2: Are Gorillas Endangered?

A critical concern surrounding gorillas is their conservation status. Sadly, many gorilla species are classified as endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and disease. It’s one of many facts about gorillas that highlight the urgent need to address the threats they face in the wild.

#3: What Do Gorillas Eat in the Wild?

Contrary to what some might expect, gorillas primarily have a vegetarian diet. They feed on leaves, stems, fruits, and occasionally insects. This is one of those cool facts about gorillas that helps you appreciate their role in the ecosystem.

#4: How Many Species of Gorilla Are There?

Another one of our many interesting facts about gorillas is that there are two main species: the Eastern gorilla and the Western gorilla. They vary in size, habitat, and behaviors. This diversity is an essential part of what makes these animals so unique.

#5: How Long Do Gorillas Live?

The longevity of these primates is another one of many fun facts about gorillas. Gorillas in the wild typically live for around 35–40 years, while those in captivity can live longer, up to 50 years. Factors like habitat quality, food availability, and threats from humans and diseases influence their lifespan. 

#6: Where Do Gorillas Live in the Wild?

Gorillas predominantly inhabit the dense rainforests and montane forests in Central and West Africa. They’ve adapted to a life in these lush environments, with their diet and social structures intertwined with the forest ecosystem.

#7: Are Mountain Gorillas Endangered?

This is another one of our interesting facts about gorillas that we wish wasn’t true. Mountain gorillas are facing a tough battle for survival, and it's not just poaching that's a threat. These magnificent creatures also struggle with habitat loss due to expanding human activities and the impacts of climate change. 

#8: Do Gorillas Use Tools?

Among our list of interesting facts about gorillas, their use of tools stands out. In the wild, gorillas have been observed using sticks to gauge water depth and for balance while crossing swamps. These instances of tool use showcase their intelligence and remind us how similar they are to us humans.

#9: Do Gorillas Live in Social Groups?

Gorillas have a complex and fascinating social structure. They live in groups called troops, led by a dominant male known as a silverback. These groups typically consist of several females and their offspring, creating strong family bonds. 

#10: How Does a Gorilla Communicate?

Communication is a captivating topic among our gorilla fun facts. It involves a variety of vocalizations, body language, and facial expressions. They use grunts, barks, and roars to communicate with each other, especially to warn of danger or assert dominance. 

#11: Are Gorillas Apes or Monkeys? 

Gorillas are apes, not monkeys. Comparing apes vs. monkeys, apes are generally larger, with more developed brains, and live in varied habitats from jungles to mountainous regions. This distinction is one of many crucial facts about gorillas and differentiates them within the primate family.

Join Fahlo in Our Journey to Protect Gorillas

These interesting facts about gorillas have offered us a glimpse into their extraordinary world. At Fahlo, we're passionate about education and conservation of all wildlife, including our primate relatives. 

Our mission extends beyond sharing interesting gorilla facts. Through products like our Traverse Bracelet, we connect people with gorillas and actively contribute to their conservation with our partnership with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

Join us in supporting these magnificent creatures. Buy a bracelet as a gift and become a part of the global effort to conserve our wildlife.