Gorilla
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Gorilla gorilla - Western Gorilla
Gorilla beringei - Eastern Gorilla
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The Gorilla, the largest of the primates, is a ground-dwelling herbivore that inhabits the forests of central west Africa.
Gorillas move about by knuckle-walking. Males range in height from 1.65 m to 1.75 m, and in weight from 140 kg to 165 kg. Females are about half the weight of males.
Gestation is 8-1/2 months. There are typically 3-4 years between births. Infants stay with their mothers for 3-4 years. Females mature at 10-12 years (earlier in captivity); males 11-13 years, sometimes sooner if they assume leadership early. Lifespan is between 30-50 years.
The Gorilla is an endangered species, and has been subject to intense poaching for a long time. Threats to Gorilla survival include habitat destruction and the bushmeat trade.
Primatologists continue to explore the relationships between various gorilla populations. The most recent publication (Primate Taxonomy, Colin Groves 2001 ISBN 1-56098-872-X) lists two recognized species, with four subspecies:
Gorilla gorilla, Western Gorilla
- Gorilla gorilla gorilla
- Gorilla gorilla diehli
Gorilla beringei, Eastern Gorilla
- Gorilla beringei beringei, Mountain Gorilla
- Gorilla beringei graueri, Eastern Lowland Gorilla
Gorillas in pop culture
- The gorilla suit is an eternally popular gag costume. On The Zone on YTV, a recurring character is Gorilla Stan, who is actually a person wearing a cheap Halloween costume.
- The mascot of the NBA's Phoenix Suns is a man in a gorilla suit, called The Gorilla.
- The giant gorilla is a recurring theme in film, especially in the various incarnations of King Kong and Mighty Joe Young.