Kahuzi Biega National Park Gorillas

Kahuzi Biega National Park Gorillas: Kahuzi Biega national park in the Democratic Republic of Congo hosts the largest gorilla subspecies in the world, which is the eastern lowland gorilla. In order to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, you will have to book a gorilla trekking safari to Congo using a credible tour company like Explore Rwanda Tours.

Gorilla trekking in Congo’s Kahuzi Biega national park is a unique experience with the last remaining eastern Lowland Gorillas, providing a stark difference between Mountain and Lowland Gorillas in Africa. Only two Gorilla Families, however, have been protected and are available for Gorilla Trekking to anyone who desire to venture into the bush. We noticed that Explore Rwanda Tours is the premier travel company offering Congo Safaris Tours to Kahuzi Biega National Park and Virunga National Park; as well as Lowland Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Congo.

Difference between Eastern Lowland Gorillas and Other Gorilla Subspecies.

Eastern lowland gorillas found in Kahuzi Biega national park are the largest primate species in the world. Males are generally bigger than females, and the species weighs between 450 and 500 pounds. That indicates the Eastern lowland gorillas are somewhat lighter than a vending machine.

These gorillas may reach heights of 5-6 feet. They have huge heads relative to the rest of their bodies, as well as powerful jaws and teeth. Except for their cheeks and hands, they have a thick covering of black fur like other gorillas. They would rather stroll about on their knuckles.

Kahuzi Biega National Park Gorillas
Gorilla

Eastern Lowland Gorilla Habitats in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

This gorilla species is found in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s eastern area. They are found in tropical lowlands and rainforests. Their range has shrunk dramatically during the previous few decades. Because of habitat degradation, gorilla distribution is likewise considerably scarcer. They used to live in an area around 8,100 square miles in size, roughly the size of the state of Massachusetts. They presently cover around 4,600 square miles. Many national parks, like as Kahuzi-Biega National Park and Maiko National Park, protect Eastern lowland gorilla habitats. There are also a few wildlife reserves devoted to the preservation of gorilla habitats.

Diet of Gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park.

Eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega national park are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and insects. They mostly devour fruits, although they also ingest berries, leaves, and nuts. The Eastern lowland gorilla prefers termites and ants as food. These gorillas will occasionally go for tiny rodents or lizards. They have been observed traveling long distances in quest of food.

Their strong jaws enable them to consume fibrous and rough plants. They also seldom drink water directly because the majority of the water they ingest is derived from the plants they consume. Adult gorillas require around 18kg (40lbs) of food every day.

Threats to the survival of Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park.

Predators provide minimal dangers to a fully developed adult gorilla. Adult Eastern lowland gorillas are only threatened by bigger creatures such as leopards and crocodiles.

Humans are by far the most dangerous to this species. This species has been harmed by habitat loss caused by mining and civil upheaval in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They are also subjected to poaching, even in national parks designed to safeguard them. Rebels and poachers infiltrate these areas in search of gorillas.

Organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund have intervened to assist the park in regaining control of the property, but the area’s on-going civil strife makes conservation challenging. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List, the eastern lowland gorilla is a threatened species.

Eastern Lowland Gorilla Reproduction and Lifespan.

When they reach sexual maturity, about 15 to 20 years of age, over half of all male gorillas will leave their birth group. They roam with other male gorillas, or occasionally alone, until they create a female harem.

The male silverback Eastern lowland gorilla, like other gorilla species, habitually mates with the troop’s females and is the only male authorized to do so. They create deep relationships with the female members, making it less likely that the females would depart.

Unless overcome by a rival male, silverback males normally stay with the same group of females their whole lives. Fights between male gorillas over control of the harem are fierce and can result in death.

Kahuzi Biega National Park Gorillas
Eastern Lowland Gorillas

Eastern lowland gorillas can live for 30-40 years in the wild. Gorillas in captivity can live to be 60 years old.

In summary; Gorilla trekking safaris at Virunga National Park may be combined with Eastern Lowland gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park in Congo and a trip of Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city. To go gorilla trekking in Congo, you must first get a Gorilla Permit, which costs USD 400, and then spend your Safari seeing several Gorilla Families.

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