Mountain gorillas are very friendly and gentle animals, even though they are large, strong, and intelligent. It is true that gorillas can be trained, and they can become close and friendly to humans.
Dian Fossey, who spent many years living with mountain gorillas, once said, “I feel more comfortable being with gorillas than being around people.”
Gorillas are generally calm, but they can become aggressive if they feel their space is being invaded, if their young ones are in danger, or if they feel threatened in any way.
Mountain gorillas may show signs of aggression when they are disturbed. When they charge, they may bite, hit, break bones, or drag someone. If not stopped, their attack can be deadly.
Before wild mountain gorillas become used to people, park rangers and researchers take time—at least two years—to help them get comfortable with human presence. This process is called gorilla habituation.
Even after gorillas are habituated, there are strict rules that tourists must follow during gorilla trekking tours in Africa.
Here are some of the main rules and guidelines:
- Always keep a distance of 7 meters from the gorillas. Do not touch them, as they are still wild animals.
- Speak in low tones and observe quietly to avoid disturbing them.
- Avoid looking directly into a gorilla’s eyes, as it may make them feel threatened.
- Never run if a gorilla charges. Running can trigger a dangerous reaction.
- If a gorilla charges, follow your guide’s instructions. You may need to crouch, pretend to eat leaves, and remain still until the gorilla moves away.
- Do not use camera flash when taking pictures of the gorillas, as they dislike it and may react badly.
In conclusion, mountain gorillas are mostly friendly, but when they feel unsafe, they can become very dangerous.
Before they charge, they usually give warning signs such as beating their chest, hitting the ground, making loud noises, and tearing plants.
If you ignore these signs, the gorilla may charge.
