World Gorilla Day

Happy World Gorilla Day!

This day was started in 2017 to raise awareness for gorilla conservation. Gorillas are a critically endangered species, mainly due to the destruction of their habitats in Africa. However, conservation efforts have been helping them out greatly. For example, according to National Geographic, the mountain gorilla has been noted to have a population of over 1,000 in the wild. That's a record for them. 

Gorillas are the largest of the primates. The males can weigh over 400 pounds and reach up to five feet in height. Genetically, they are humans' closest relatives, sharing 95-99% of our DNA. Like humans, they also share unique fingerprints. No two gorillas have the same fingerprints. In the wild, a gorilla's life span is around 35-40 years on average. However, gorillas in zoos can live nearly twice that long. The oldest known gorilla, Ozzie, died in January 2022 at 61 years of age. 

Gorillas live in groups called "troops". Heh, I now am thinking of a gorilla in a military uniform playing drill sergeant, ha ha. Gorillas are fascinating critters.

I meant to do these for World Red Panda, Manta Ray, and Rhino Days, but they slipped by me, unfortunately. Maybe I'll do something belated for them. 

Thanks for reading this blog entry! If you liked it, show it off! Take care of yourselves and each other! Stay safe, stay healthy, stay home, wash your hands often, wear a mask, and get your vaccine/booster! See you next time!