Silverback gorillas are renowned for their immense strength, but just how strong are they compared to humans? The answer is strikingly clear: a silverback gorilla is significantly stronger than a human. While a well-trained human might lift up to 400kg, a silverback gorilla can lift or throw up to 815kg – more than the weight of 20 adult humans. Even an average adult gorilla, without the added muscle mass of a silverback, can lift an astounding 450kg. This incredible strength is readily apparent in their massive physique, with adult gorillas weighing up to 200kg.
Gorilla Strength: A Force of Nature
Beyond sheer lifting power, a gorilla’s strength manifests in other impressive ways. Their bite force, for example, is estimated to be around 1300 pounds per square inch (PSI), dwarfing a lion’s bite at 650 PSI. Their large canines deliver a powerful bite capable of inflicting serious damage. Furthermore, gorillas spend much of their time moving on all fours, developing incredibly strong arms and a grip capable of tearing down vegetation with ease.
How strong are gorillas?
Fueling Immense Power: The Gorilla Diet
A gorilla’s strength isn’t solely attributed to genetics; diet plays a crucial role. These primates consume a massive amount of food daily, with mountain gorillas eating up to 34kg of vegetation, fruits, and insects. This substantial intake of nutrients fuels their powerful muscles and contributes to their overall physical condition.
Beyond Brawn: Intelligence and Emotion
Despite their intimidating strength, gorillas are generally gentle and peaceful creatures. They are highly intelligent primates, sharing 98% of their DNA with humans, and possess a complex range of emotions. Gorillas communicate through a variety of vocalizations, estimated at around 25 distinct sounds, expressing everything from excitement to danger. They are known to chuckle, giggle, and even bellow when threatened, much like humans. The iconic chest beating display is not just a show of strength but a complex form of communication, asserting dominance and warning rivals.
Respecting Strength: Safe Gorilla Trekking Practices
Understanding a gorilla’s strength highlights the importance of respectful interaction during gorilla trekking experiences. Observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a privilege, and following safety guidelines ensures both human and gorilla well-being.
Maintaining a safe distance of 7 meters is crucial to avoid making gorillas feel threatened. Avoid surrounding a gorilla family, as this can be perceived as an act of aggression. Refrain from using flash photography, making loud noises, or attempting to touch the gorillas, particularly the playful juveniles. Avoid direct eye contact, which can be seen as a challenge, and refrain from using any form of sign language, as misinterpretations could lead to unintended consequences. Always heed the instructions of your ranger guide for a safe and rewarding encounter. Observing these guidelines allows for a peaceful and enriching experience, allowing us to witness the awe-inspiring strength and gentle nature of these incredible animals.
