The western lowland gorilla is a critically endangered species according to the IUCN. There are many threats to the population of gorillas. Being hunted for bushmeat is a main threat to the species, despite laws banning killing gorillas. Deforestation is another large threat. Disease has had a dramatic impact on the population. Ebola outbreaks starting in the early 2000s are believed to have killed around one third of the lowland gorilla population.
Like all apes, gorillas are social creatures that live in family groups. The western lowland gorillas live in small groups up to around ten individuals. The troop is lead by a dominant male called a silverback.
Fun Fact: Infant gorillas throw temper tantrums when they don’t get what they want.
Eye of the Wild Photography 