Ask an Educator
Q: How did the Gorilla’s get the name silver backs?
BG: Grown males develop silver-gray saddles across their backs and upper thighs, earning them the name silver back.
Q: What do Gorilla’s eat?
BG: Gorillas eat mainly plants including their leaves, stems and roots. Since vegetation has relatively low nutritional quality they must consume a large quantity. An adult male gorilla may consume more than 18 kg (40 lb) of vegetation per day.
Q: How long do Gorilla’s live?
BG: Gorillas live an average lifespan of about 35 years in the wild but, in controlled habitats like Busch Gardens they may live up to 50 years.