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The gorilla is the largest living primate. A gorilla must spend most of its day eating plants to maintain its large size. Despite its massive size and ferocious reputation, the gorilla is actually a peaceful and social animal. Gorillas and humans are close relatives, and share many things in common. They are very intelligent, have emotions and personalities, and live in family groups.
Did You Know?
Gorillas and humans have the same number of hairs on their bodies.
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- A troop of up to 20 gorillas is led and defended by a dominant male called a silverback.
- A male gorilla has the strength of up to eight men.
- Chest-beating is one way a gorilla shows that it’s excited.
- Gorillas walk on the knuckles of their hands and the soles of their feet.
The Cincinnati Zoo is dedicated to gorilla conservation, both in the wild and in zoos. Click here to learn more about what the Cincinnati Zoo is doing for gorilla conservation.