Want to understand why silverback gorillas fight? Male gorillas become silverbacks when they grow older and develop a patch of grey hair on their backs and shoulders.
Only silverback male gorillas can lead a mountain gorilla family and mate with any female in the group.
Female mountain gorillas become sexually mature at a younger age than male gorillas.
Why do silverback gorillas fight?
Silverback gorillas usually do not fight without a strong reason. But when they do, the fights can be very serious, sometimes causing injuries or even death. However, such fights are rare in stable groups.
Here are some common reasons why silverbacks fight:
- Group dominance: Silverbacks may fight when one male wants to take control of the group.
- Female gorillas: Fights may happen if the leading silverback finds another male mating with females. In the group, only the leading silverback is allowed to mate with females.
- Silverbacks from different groups: When two gorilla groups meet, silverbacks may feel threatened and start fighting.
- Group breakups: Fights can also happen when a silverback wants to leave the group and take some members to start a new family.
- Lone silverbacks: Sometimes, a lone silverback tries to take members from another group to form his own family, which can lead to fights.
Mountain gorillas usually give warning signs before fighting. These signs include groaning, loud hooting, hitting the ground, beating their chest, and tearing or throwing vegetation. If the other gorilla does not back down, a fight may follow.
Mountain gorillas use their sharp canine teeth for biting and their strong arms for hitting. They can cause deep injuries and may even drag their opponent.
Mountain gorillas rarely attack humans. This is especially true for habituated gorilla families that are used to being around people.
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