Gorillas are powerful, intelligent primates that share approximately 98% of their DNA with humans. These great apes, particularly the dominant silverbacks, are capable of immense strength, but their behavior is primarily driven by defense, not predatory instinct. While they are generally peaceful and shy, a perceived threat to their family group or territory can trigger a defensive display. Understanding their communication is paramount to safety and preventing escalation.
Understanding Gorilla Temperament and Displays
A gorilla’s motivation for aggression is almost always rooted in the protection of its family unit, troop, or perceived territory. The silverback, the dominant male, is the primary protector and is responsible for the safety of the group, influencing his behavior to be more assertive. This defensive posturing is usually preceded by a ritualized sequence of warning signs designed to intimidate an intruder without needing physical contact.
The full threat display can involve up to nine distinct steps, beginning with quickening hooting vocalizations and symbolic feeding, followed by rising bipedally. The display quickly escalates to throwing vegetation, standing tall, and the iconic chest-beating. In most cases, the full charge that follows this display is a bluff, allowing the troop time to retreat to safety.
De-escalating an Initial Encounter
Remaining calm is essential, as sudden movements or panic can trigger the gorilla’s chase instinct and escalate the situation. If a gorilla begins a threat display, the goal is to communicate submission and a lack of hostile intent. Avoid making direct eye contact, which gorillas interpret as a challenge to their dominance, and instead avert your gaze or look down at the ground.
Minimize your physical presence by crouching down to appear smaller and non-threatening. Speaking in a low, non-threatening voice, or mimicking submissive ape behaviors like plucking and chewing leaves, can help defuse the tension. Slowly and steadily backing away is recommended only if the gorilla is not actively charging, and you must avoid turning your back to the animal.
Survival Tactics During a Charge
If the gorilla has committed to a full charge, the priority shifts immediately to signaling utter defeat and protecting your body. Running is the worst action, as flight will trigger their natural instinct to pursue. Instead, drop to the ground and curl into the fetal position, often called “hugging the ground.”
This submissive posture protects your vital organs and communicates to the silverback that you pose no challenge. Use your arms to cover the back of your neck and head to shield against physical contact. Remain still and silent, avoiding any screaming or struggling, until the gorilla loses interest and moves away. Active resistance, even if the gorilla makes physical contact, will be interpreted as a continuation of the fight and could lead to a more severe attack.