Western Lowland Gorilla: Giants of the Forest Edge

While primarily forest dwellers, western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) occasionally venture into savanna-like clearings and edges of tropical rainforests. These areas, known as “bais,” provide access to mineral-rich soils and unique vegetation. Their diet includes fruit, leaves, and sometimes tree bark, which they gather while roaming their expansive territories.

Western lowland gorillas live in troops led by a dominant silverback. This leader protects the group and maintains order. In areas where forests meet savannas, they demonstrate adaptability by foraging for plants typically found in open grasslands. However, poaching and habitat destruction threaten their survival, making conservation of these mixed ecosystems vital.