Types of Gorillas in Africa

Gorillas are the largest primates in the world and one of the most fascinating species found in Africa. They belong to the genus Gorilla and are classified into two species: the eastern gorilla (Gorilla beringei) and the western gorilla (Gorilla gorilla). Each of these species is further divided into two subspecies, making a total of four distinct types of gorillas found in Africa. These gorillas inhabit dense forests and mountainous regions in different parts of Africa and play a crucial role in their ecosystems. Below is an in-depth look at the four subspecies of gorillas in Africa, their characteristics, habitats, behaviors, and conservation status.

Species of Gorillas in Africa

Eastern Gorilla (Gorilla beringei)

The eastern gorilla is one of the two species of gorillas and is further classified into two subspecies: the mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) and the Grauer’s gorilla (Gorilla beringei graueri). These gorillas are mainly found in the forests of East and Central Africa.

Mountain Gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) 

Mountain gorillas are certainly the stars of Uganda’s wildlife scene. Found in the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, these gentle giants are a subspecies of the eastern gorilla and are critically endangered. Uganda is privileged to host over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, making it a prime destination for gorilla trekking enthusiasts. Mountain gorillas are known for their thick fur which helps them survive in the cold, high-altitude forests where they live. They are highly social animals living in groups led by a dominant silverback male. Watching them interact whether it is a playful young gorilla climbing trees or a silverback keeping a watchful eye over his family is a memorable experience.

Eastern lowland gorillas (Gorilla beringei graueri)

While eastern lowland gorillas are not native to Uganda, they are closely related to the mountain gorillas found in the Uganda. These gorillas primarily stay in the lowland forests of neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo but are worth mentioning due to their shared lineage with Uganda’s mountain gorillas. Eastern lowland gorillas are larger than their mountain cousins with shorter fur and a broader chest. Though they do not reside in Uganda, understanding their traits helps highlight the diversity within the gorilla species.

Western Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla)

The western gorilla species consists of two subspecies: the western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) and the Cross River gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli). These gorillas are primarily found in the dense rainforests of West and Central Africa.

Western lowland Gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) 

Western lowland gorillas are another species that you will not find in Uganda’s wild but are often discussed when exploring the broader context of gorilla conservation. Native to the forests of Central and West Africa, these gorillas are smaller and lighter than mountain gorillas. They are also more numerous though still classified as critically endangered. While Uganda does not host western lowland gorillas, their conservation efforts serve as an inspiration for protecting all types of gorillas globally. Many conservation initiatives in Uganda focus on preserving habitats and reducing human to wildlife conflict which benefits not only mountain gorillas but other primate species as well.

Cross river gorillas (Gorilla gorilla diehli) 

The rarest and most elusive of all gorilla subspecies, Cross River gorillas inhabit a small region along the Nigeria-Cameroon border. Like western lowland gorillas, they are not found in Uganda but are part of the broader conversation about gorilla diversity and conservation. Cross River gorillas face significant threats due to habitat loss and human activity. Their critically endangered status underscores the importance of regional and international collaboration in protecting all gorilla populations. For more information about Gorillas, contact Giant Holiday Safaris.