Gorillas Offer Outstanding Attraction For Tourists In The Congo

View PDF | Print View
by: copitek
Total views: 4
Word Count: 457
Date: Thu, 29 Jul 2010 Time: 9:38 PM
0 comments

One of many characteristic traits of the Congo is the highly popular and rather rare mountain gorilla. The number of gorillas as a whole in the Congo seems to vary from one source to the next, but there are reports of over 125,000 lowland gorillas in the area. As for mountain gorillas, it is estimated that there are no more than 380.

While there could very well be many more scattered throughout the forests, the Virunga Volcano Mountains is a well known home for this species. The habitat for mountain gorillas is a cloudy, foggy and cold environment deep into the forests. This is precisely what makes them so rare and difficult to find. But with the help of mountaingorillasafaritours.com, you will have no problem tracking them down.

To many people's surprise, these animals are typically rather peaceful and calm. But as with any wild animal, it should be noted that they can become aggressive. If you do take a trip to the Congo and see gorillas, understand that charging, screaming and showing off their teeth is a warning sign to back away. In order to remain safe and out of harms way, make note of any sudden movements or loud roars.

The size of mountain gorillas can vary, but on average an adult male will reach 400 pounds while a female can reach around 200 pounds. While they typically walk on all fours and reach a height of 3 and a half feet, they can become intimidating when standing upright around 5 and a half feet tall. Outside of the size, you can recognize males by the silver on their backs and females do not have the crest on the top of their heads.

The great thing about gorillas is that they live in groups. As a tourist, this makes it much easier to land on a large group in the Congo. An ideal group consists of one or two adult males, several young males, adult females and infants. As expected, the silverback, or adult male, is the head of the group and protects the group from outside dangers. This is precisely why you need to be cautious of gorillas with silver backs when hiking in the area.

It is still unknown just how many gorillas roam the forests of the Congo and will continue to be unrecognized for some time. Regardless, it is a remarkable animal that can certainly make any trip to the area well worth it. By understanding their movements, knowing when to keep your distance, and recognizing how calm and cool they really can be you will learn that there is not much better in life than seeing a gorilla up close and personal.

About the Author

Would you like additional information about the Author and on www.hakunamatatatours.com and how their Rwanda tours and Gorilla safari can be the experience of your lifetime. Kennedy Nari invites you to visit his website for everything you need to begin your adventure.