Do Gorillas Ever Attack Tourists?
While gorillas are incredibly powerful animals, attacks on tourists during gorilla trekking are extremely rare. The gorillas that tourists visit are habituated, meaning they are accustomed to human presence. This process takes several years and involves dedicated researchers and trackers gradually getting the gorillas used to seeing people.
Here’s why attacks are unlikely and the measures in place to prevent them:
- Habituation: The gorillas are carefully habituated to human presence, so they generally view tourists as non-threatening.
- Expert Guides: Treks are always led by experienced and knowledgeable guides and rangers. They are highly skilled at understanding gorilla behavior and can interpret their moods and signals. They know how to ensure a safe and respectful interaction.
- Strict Rules and Guidelines: Before your trek, you will receive a thorough briefing on how to behave around gorillas. These rules are crucial for your safety and the gorillas’ well-being. Key guidelines include:
- Maintaining a Safe Distance: You are typically required to stay at least 7 meters (about 23 feet) away from the gorillas.
- Avoiding Direct Eye Contact: This can be perceived as a challenge by gorillas.
- Keeping Voices Low: Loud noises canAgitate or scare the gorillas.
- Not Eating or Drinking Near Gorillas: This can increase the risk of disease transmission.
- Following Guide Instructions: Always listen to your guide’s directions.
- Gorilla Behavior: Gorillas are generally gentle and shy creatures. Aggression is usually a defensive response when they feel threatened or their family is in danger. By following the guidelines, you minimize the chances of them feeling threatened.
- Ranger Protection: In some cases, especially in areas with other wildlife, armed rangers may accompany the trekking group as a precautionary measure against other potential threats, not typically the gorillas themselves.
When might a gorilla act aggressively?
While rare with habituated gorillas, potential triggers for aggression could include:
- Feeling Threatened: If tourists get too close, make sudden movements, or act aggressively.
- Protecting Their Young: Silverbacks are fiercely protective of their families. Getting too close to a baby gorilla could provoke a defensive reaction.
- Surprise or Startling: Unexpected encounters or loud noises could startle a gorilla.
- Disease Risk: While not an attack, gorillas are susceptible to human diseases. Getting too close if you are unwell could put them at risk.
In the unlikely event of a gorilla approaching or charging:
- Stay Calm: Do not panic or run.
- Follow Your Guide’s Instructions: They are trained to handle such situations.
- Crouch Down: Make yourself appear smaller and less threatening.
- Avoid Direct Eye Contact: Look down or away.
- Speak Softly or Not at All:
- Slowly Back Away: If the gorilla allows, create distance gradually.
Conclusion:
Gorilla trekking is considered a safe activity when conducted responsibly and by adhering to the guidelines provided by your guides. The habituated nature of the gorillas and the expertise of the trekking teams make direct attacks on tourists extremely uncommon. Your safety and the conservation of these magnificent animals are top priorities for the park authorities and tour operators.