Home » Travel Information » Mountain Gorilla Defense Mechanisms – How They Deter Predators
A defense mechanism is an automatic way of protecting oneself from danger. The mountain gorilla defense mechanisms are quite complex.
Mountain gorillas have several ways to defend themselves, as explained below:
- Mountain gorillas can stand upright to appear bigger and taller in order to scare away predators.
- They show their large canine teeth to frighten their enemies. These teeth are strong and can cause serious injury or even death if the bite is deep.
- Gorillas also beat their chests loudly and make hooting sounds to warn or protect themselves. When a gorilla senses danger, it makes an alarm call to alert the rest of the group, so they can gather around the silverback for protection.
- Female gorillas form strong bonds with male silverbacks to help protect themselves and their young from attacks.
- Mountain gorillas have very strong arms, which they use to fight off predators and move quickly through trees. Their strength allows them to lift or break heavy objects when needed.
Though mountain gorillas are large in size, they still face threats from predators. Their most common predators are humans and leopards.Leopards can kill gorillas, but it is not easy, especially when gorillas live in groups. Leopards often take advantage of their ability to climb trees where gorillas build their nests at night.You can go mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks in Uganda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.The cost of gorilla permits is different in each country:
- $800 in Uganda
- $1500 in Rwanda
- $400 in Congo during the dry season
Please note that these costs exclude other service costs of organizing a complete trip.Before going gorilla trekking, it’s important to be physically fit because the gorillas live in high areas that require hiking.You should also book your gorilla permit before you travel.
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