How strong is a Gorilla?
With over 95% of their DNA being comparable to that of humans, gorillas are man’s closest cousins and are without any doubt the strongest primates on the earth. There are two species of gorillas namely, the Eastern and Western gorillas. The most common gorillas are those found in Eastern Africa, where they can be found in both lowland and mountain regions. They are regarded as the largest primate species in the world.
Given its enormous weight, which allows it to carry objects ten times, their own weight, a gorilla is the clear favorite in a grandiose competition to determine which Great Ape is the strongest. How strong is a gorilla, one may ask at this point? What is the gorilla’s strength in relation to humans, how much weight can it lift, and how strong is its bite? You’re in the right place if you have any questions of this kind.
A mature silverback’s strength can surpass that of over fifteen men with similar build put together, and a gorilla’s strength is almost ten times more than its body weight. Their teeth protrude and their jaw muscles are strong. They have a sturdy build.
The gorillas’ enormous size accounts for the majority of its strength. The weight of a mature male silverback gorilla ranges from 300 to 500 kg, whilst the female weighs between 150 and 250 kg. They are therefore the largest Great Apes, and you may find it interesting to learn that they can lift objects ten times their own body weight. If the silverback gorilla weighs 181 kg, for example, it is likely that he will lift up to 1810 kg.
An average male gorilla is claimed to be able to lift an object that is at least 0.87 times its body weight, which makes them amazing and worthy of study. But as no one has ever held competitions to measure animal strength, these numbers are merely estimates given the lack of knowledge on the true strength of gorillas.
As opposed to a lion’s 650 pounds per square inch, a hyena’s 1100 pounds per square inch, and a human’s 162 pounds per square inch, gorillas are thought to be six times stronger than humans and possess an astonishing biting strength of 1300 pounds per square inch (PSI).
Suggested Safari Itineraries
How a Gorilla’s Body adds to their Strength
A gorilla’s strength is greatly influenced by its enormous body size. Female gorillas typically weigh 150–250 pounds, whereas males often reach 300–500 pounds in the wild. Male and female size differences are glaring examples of sexual dimorphism.
Sexual dimorphism, for instance, can cause men and females of the same species to differ markedly in terms of size or color. Within the animal kingdom, this is extremely prevalent, especially with primates.
The largest and strongest of the great apes are gorillas. Nonetheless, these apes’ gait has had a big influence on how their bodies have changed over time. Primates move around by brachiation, which is the process of hanging and swinging from different trees.
They have consequently developed particular shoulder joints and an odd muscle distribution. Gorillas can move around on four legs, a trait known as quadrupedal locomotion.
Gorillas are able to move steadily on land thanks to their joints and have very powerful hind limbs for pushing themselves forward and supporting their body weight. These illustrations of how daily activity causes structural changes over time are provided by orangutans and gorillas.
Consequently, gorillas’ musculature has been greatly influenced by the way they walk. To find out more about gorilla functional adaptations, click this link.
Suggested Safari Itineraries
Where to find Gorillas?
Half of all mountain gorillas live in the misty jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southern Uganda. The remaining ones are situated in the northern Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and the remaining ones are found in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park. These locations are open to tourists year-round, and gorillas can be seen there.
How much is a Gorilla permit?
The cost to track these formidable animals in their natural habitat varies by country and season; in Uganda, it is 700 USD for foreign non-residents, 600 USD for foreign residents, and 250,000 USD for East African citizens; in Rwanda, it is 1500 USD for foreign citizens and in the Democratic Republic of Congo, it is 400 USD.
The fees are non-refundable and must be paid daily per person aged 15 and up. The money covers park entrance, ranger guide compensation, conservation efforts, and a contribution to the park’s surrounding community. Because of high demand, visitors are advised to book at least six months in advance.
Customize this tour using our local expertise. We will recommend the best lodges to suit your travel style and book your permits for your travel dates.
We take care of all the ground logistics so you can relax and enjoy a perfect getaway!
Not just a safari to Africa,
It's an experience of a lifetime.
100% Excellent Reviews on Tripadvisor
100% Excellent reviews on Safaribookings
6+ years of experience
Unforgettable experiences guarantee.