Are Gorillas Horrible Animals?
Even though gorillas are no longer the huge, ferocious animals that people formerly believed them to be, they are nonetheless powerful animals that may be fatal if attacked. Male silverbacks are quite strong, with large canines that can inflict serious harm.
Silverbacks have been known to kill newborns after seizing control of a group, and leaders of two gorilla groups often fight violently whenever they meet.
Despite their generally peaceful nature, gorillas can turn violent in certain situations. It’s important to keep in mind that they are wild animals that need to be treated with respect and care.
There are a few things to be aware of as it comes to gorillas. For starters, men may act violently if they perceive a threat to their group, even if it is only seen as such. For this reason, it is essential to accustom these animals to people gradually before allowing them to visit.
If not, the leader of the group can become frightened and attack. In the past, this has been a big problem for hunters, who have run into gorillas and been seriously injured. In general, it’s crucial to use caution and take your time around gorillas.
What Makes Gorillas Aggressive?
Gorillas are gentle giants, as we all know. They might look like they could tear you to pieces, yet they are calm beings who just want to be left alone. But remember, they are wild animals, and as such, they may turn aggressive if they feel threatened.
Additionally, keep in mind that bright colors can make gorillas aggressive, which is why tourists who go gorilla trekking are advised to dress in muted hues like brown or green to blend in with the forest where the gorillas reside.
When a human gets too close to their territory or a silverback from another group tries to kidnap one of the females, the gorillas will try to frighten them away by tearing down leaves and grunting loudly. The silverback will stand up on its odd legs and pound its chest in a show of force if that doesn’t work.
These actions show that the gorilla is ready to protect its family and itself from the specific danger. Therefore, keep in mind to respect gorillas’ space and give them some space when you’re in the wild.
Do Habituated Gorillas Act Aggressively or Dangerously?
One of the most misunderstood animals is probably the gorilla. Despite the common misconception that they are violent and dangerous, gorillas are actually kind giants. They only act aggressively when threatened because they are inherently calm and reserved. Despite popular belief, wild gorillas are not nearly as dangerous as they are depicted.
The vast majority of gorilla-human encounters have taken place in zoos or other enclosed environments, where the primates have been deprived of their native social structures and surroundings. Gorillas are not very dangerous to humans when allowed to exist in their natural surroundings. In actuality, a large number of gorillas have adapted to human presence and can be safely observed in the wild.
Although gorilla habituation is a long and challenging process, it can produce gregarious and accustomed gorillas. Gorilla tracking experiences are offered to tourists in several countries with sizable gorilla populations, such as Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Through these unique opportunities, people may learn more about these amazing creatures and see gorillas in their natural environment.
What should you do if a gorilla attacks you?
Even though gorillas are kind giants, they are still wild animals and can become aggressive if they are threatened. There are some precautions you should take to prevent an attack if you are lucky enough to see gorillas in the wild. Look at the gorilla’s body language first. It’s time to retreat if they begin to beat their chest or make other aggressive motions.
Don’t Make Eye Contact
Additionally, you should refrain from making direct eye contact or showing your teeth because these could be interpreted as threats. Additionally, it is crucial to avoid utilizing headlights or flashing cameras close to gorillas as they could frighten them and provoke an attack. You might have a fun and safe encounter with these amazing animals if you abide by these simple guidelines.
Remain calm.
Being composed is one of the most important things to keep in mind when viewing a gorilla. In the presence of a large, potentially lethal animal, it might be challenging to complete, but in this instance, it is crucial. Gorillas enjoy feeling superior, and they will attack if you appear anxious or afraid. Reduce your size instead.
Don’t look directly at the gorilla, rather look toward the trees and be alert. Don’t run away, no matter what you do; gorillas are much faster than people, and trying to run away will just make it more eager to chase you.
The gorilla will eventually lose interest and move on if you can maintain your composure and obedience. Keep in mind that if the target of a gorilla attack is no longer a threat or challenge, the gorilla will never continue the attack. You should be alright as long as you don’t try to run away or fight back.
Pay attention to your guide.
When you are on safari, the Rangers always put your safety first. If a gorilla does go hostile, which is unusual, the Rangers will try to distract it from you and focus it on themselves. They would only think about shooting into the air to frighten the animal away as a last option.
We have led safaris for many years, and we have never heard of a Ranger/Guide having to use this technique. When you go on safari with us, you can be sure that you are in capable hands.
