Physical Characteristics:
The Ugandan Mountain Gorilla is physically distinct from the lowland gorillas. They are larger, have much hair, a short trunk, a broad chest / shoulders and also have a longer / slightly different nose shape. Gorilla eyes and ears are dwarfed by its large head and hairless, shinny black muzzle. The fully adult male mountain gorilla is twice as large as the female. Male and female young gorillas between the ages of three and six are classed as juvenile. During this period both the male and female have a black skin and thick black rates for the first six years. On reaching six years; most mountain gorillas were about 68 kilograms. Between the ages of six and ten years, male mountain gorillas have a black hair colour and are thus referred to as the Blackbacks. On reaching maturity which is usually between 10 and 12 years, the male mountain gorilla develops silvery grey hairs on their backs thereby getting the name Silverbacks.

Habitat:    
The most serious threat to gorillas is habitat loss. In Uganda, Mountain Gorillas are found in Mgahinga and Bwindi Forest.

Gorilla Safaris

Gorilla Information

Mountain Gorilla Safaris Africa, Gorilla gorilla beringei
Physical Characteristics and Habitat
Gorillas in Uganda Bwindi, Behaviour and diet of these Apes
About Gorillas and Parenting