Heart-Pumping Video Shows a King Kong-Sized Gorilla Coming Within Inches of a Hiking Group

Incredible Encounter with an Alpha Great Ape!

Prepare to be captivated by the riveting video below which tells the tale of a heart-stopping moment in the presence of a colossal silverback mountain gorilla. The scene unfolds with a group of adventure-seeking wildlife photographers and their guide, who find themselves mere inches away from the imposing silverback. Evidently aware of the situation’s delicate dynamics as well as the body language of these great apes, the photographers avoid direct eye contact and assume non-threatening postures, seated on the ground.

Witness the Moment These Photographers’ Lives Flash Before Their Eyes!

Despite the group’s careful demeanor, it becomes evident that the silverback harbors some unspoken issues with the group. Suddenly, the tension in the air turns electric as the gorilla feints a charge, causing the nearest two photographers to instinctively retreat, granting the majestic creature the space he desires. As the awe-inspiring creature establishes its authority, the photographers, their hearts pounding, count their blessings. 

However, the gorilla’s demeanor undergoes a remarkable transformation, signaling a shift in mood. This huge ape, capable of ripping the photographers apart, chooses to calmly walk through the path that it orchestrated, striding between the now-separated photographers. As tranquility is restored, the massive silverback settles near a cluster of tantalizing plants, demonstrating its herbivorous nature as it indulges in a peaceful meal. It seems like the photographers were simply in the way of this gentle giant getting to its next snack!

The crazy video above offers a glimpse into the world of these magnificent creatures, showcasing the raw power but remarkable gentleness that coexist within the complex and incredible silverback gorilla. It leaves viewers in awe of the delicate balance between respect, fear, and the profound beauty of some of our closest relatives in the wild!

Gentle Giants of the Great Ape Family

Silverback gorillas, despite their immense physical power, are generally known for their peaceful demeanor. These majestic creatures exhibit a remarkable display of gentleness and social intelligence. While they possess the strength to defend themselves and their families, their inclination is to avoid violence whenever possible.

Silverback gorillas will utilize their strength when necessary, especially in situations that threaten their family’s safety. They have been observed warding off predators like leopards and occasionally even lions, demonstrating their protective nature and willingness to confront formidable foes.

In comparison to other apes, such as chimpanzees, silverback gorillas display far less aggression and violence. Chimpanzees, known for their territorial disputes and aggression, have a higher propensity for violent behavior within their social groups, including hunting and lethal conflicts. Even human beings, another member of the great ape family, have a history littered with conflict and violence.

Silverback gorillas, on the other hand, emphasize a more peaceful social structure. They rely on communication, posturing, and displays of dominance to maintain order within their groups rather than resorting to physical aggression. This cooperative and tranquil approach fosters harmony among the gorilla troop, highlighting their unique and captivating nature as the gentle giants of the primate world.

East, West, Lowland, Mountains… Gorillas Call Them All Home!

There are four recognized subspecies of gorillas, each with its own unique characteristics and distribution. The Western Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla) comprises two subspecies: the Western Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) and the Cross River Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli). The Western Lowland Gorilla is the most widespread, inhabiting the dense rainforests of West and Central Africa. On the other hand, the Cross River Gorilla is restricted to a small area along the border of Nigeria and Cameroon and is considered one of the most endangered gorilla subspecies.

The Eastern Gorilla (Gorilla berengei) includes two subspecies: the Eastern Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla berengei graueri) and the critically endangered Mountain Gorilla (Gorilla berengei berengei) that we see in the stunning footage below. The Eastern Lowland Gorilla resides in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and is adapted to the lowland forests of the region. In contrast, the Mountain Gorilla is found in the high-altitude forests of the Virunga Mountains, spanning Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mountain Gorillas face significant threats due to habitat loss and poaching, and their population is critically endangered, so conservationist efforts are crucial in saving these powerful yet peaceful, complex creatures.

Is it Normal Behavior for Gorillas to Approach Humans?

The group in the video was under the supervision of guides who take tourists into the Rwandan tropical mountain forests to observe mountain gorillas. Because people come into their habitat on a regular, if not daily basis, the gorillas get used to being around humans – so in this case, it is normal for them to approach because they aren’t afraid.

People on the tours are often surprised at how calm the gorillas are around humans – who merely glance their way and resume whatever they were doing. The gorillas may even look a person in the eyes – however, tourists are instructed to only look back for a second before casting their eyes down to signal that they are no threat.

To protect the gorillas, who have become habituated to the presence of humans, tourists must agree to follow a few rules. Humans must try to keep a safe distance of 23 feet (7 meters) away from the gorillas. If a gorilla comes close, as he did in the video, they are instructed to just stay still and let him move as he likes. If a gorilla sits down beside you – you should slowly move away to resume a safe distance. Gorillas who have not been habituated to humans shouldn’t be approached – but given the rarity of coming upon these majestic creatures in the wild without a trained guide – that’s a scenario seldom seen.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Carine06 from UK / CC BY-SA 2.0 – License / Original