Field guide · legendary
Gorilla
The gentle giant of the mist — a great ape whose family bonds and calm strength make every mountain encounter unforgettable.
Endangered
Overview
The mountain gorilla is one of humanity's closest relatives, sharing about 98% of our DNA. Silverback males lead family groups of females and young through dense montane forest, foraging on leaves, stems, and wild celery for hours each day.
Gorillas are far gentler than their size suggests — playing, grooming, and communicating through grumbles, chest beats, and expressive eyes. Habituated groups in Rwanda and Uganda allow carefully managed trekking that funds conservation and local communities.
Habitat
Montane rainforest on the volcanic slopes of the Virunga Mountains, spanning Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Gorillas need dense forest with abundant herbaceous vegetation and minimal human disturbance.
Countries found
Interesting facts
- 01
Gorillas share about 98% of their DNA with humans.
- 02
Silverbacks can weigh over 200 kilograms but eat mostly plants.
- 03
Each gorilla nose print is unique — like a fingerprint.
Conservation status
Mountain gorillas are Endangered but recovering — one of conservation's success stories. Tourism revenue in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park has helped triple their numbers since the 1980s.
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Where it lives
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Catch the Gorilla
Spot one in the wild — then scan it in Catch'Um to log your legendary discovery.