Mountain gorillas diet

Uganda’s tourism industry is dominated by its mountain gorillas. Uganda provides the world’s most exciting and varied mountain gorilla expeditions, which explains why. Every year, a large number of tourists descend on the nation in hopes of getting a glimpse of the rare gorilla species, which not only attracts attention with its amazing looks but also awes visitors with their fascinating behaviours.

Because of their distinct physical characteristics, mountain gorillas are identical as compared to other gorilla species and provide unique experiences. At least once in their lifetime, every animal lover should feel the exhilarating sensation of being near these gentle giants. They are beautiful because of their serene manner, but what really wins people over are their soft purrs and the happy young children and babies in their families.
As one of the largest and strongest extant primates on the continent, mountain gorillas take great pride in their stature. After spending an hour with these gentle giants, you will feel humbled by their placid demeanour. They are much more alluring and almost welcoming because they are nice despite being giants. They thrill travelers with a number of fascinating facts about them.

One of the most fascinating facts is that they enjoy snuggling up at night by building nests in which to sleep. They can eat all day, share almost 98% of human DNA, and live in families. These are only the tip of the iceberg; further information is offered by tourist guides on the excursions. The fact that they resemble us so much must have been obvious to you from the facts above, demonstrating our strong ties.
Where to see mountain gorillas?
It is important to note that mountain gorillas live in two isolated groups that is to say those in the Virunga Massif and those in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to the majority of mountain gorillas, therefore it’s no surprise that Uganda has the most. Uganda accounts for more than half of the overall population.

As a result, half of the 1063 mountain gorillas that are currently extant live in Uganda. Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo, and Ruhija are the sectors. Because of their topography and position, all of these sectors provide unique trekking experiences and are home to 21 fully habituated gorilla families.
Another mountain gorilla habitat is the Viringa Massif . The massif hosts 8 attractive volcanoes that are the habitat of the iconic mountain gorillas. It comprises three national parks in 3 different countries that is to say Mgahinga in Uganda, Volcanoes in Rwanda, and Virunga in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Mgahinga National Park features one habituated gorilla family, Nyakagezi, that is available for trekking. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda contains 12 completely habituated gorilla families, whereas Virunga National Park has eight. Bwindi is divided into four separate gorilla regions because of its size.

Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo, and Ruhija are the sectors. Because of their topography and position, all of these sectors provide unique trekking experiences and are home to 21 fully habituated gorilla families.
Another mountain gorilla habitat is the Viringa Massif . The massif hosts 8 attractive volcanoes that are the habitat of the iconic mountain gorillas. It consists of three national parks located in three distinct nations: Virunga in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Volcanoes in Rwanda, and Mgahinga in Uganda.
Mgahinga National Park features one habituated gorilla family, Nyakagezi, that is available for trekking. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda contains 12 completely habituated gorilla families, whereas Virunga National Park has eight.

Mountain Gorillas’ Diet.
Now that you know what mountain gorillas are and where to find them, you must be wondering about what food they eat. The nutrition of mountain gorillas is not particularly complex. It consists primarily of vegetables. As a result, mountain gorillas consume 80% of their calories from veggies.
Mountain gorillas primarily eat on green vegetation in their natural habitat. That is why, in most situations, they climb trees to get fresh leaves.

They also feast on bamboo shoots – a reason why they reside in Bamboo forests in Mgahinga and Volcanoes National Parks.

Mountain gorillas eat stems from diverse vegetation in deep tropical rainforests. They prefer rotting wood and barks, which are high in sodium and contribute significantly to their diet. However, mountain gorillas eat invertebrates such as snails, larvae, and ants. They also eat meat on rare occasions. That includes those in captivity.

Requirements to trek and get first-hand experience of the mountain gorillas’ diet.
To trek and have firsthand experience with the mountain gorilla diet, one must first obtain a permit. The permits are bought through travel companies who have registered with the authorities. A gorilla permit in Uganda costs $800 non-refundable, whereas one in Rwanda costs $1500.

What is the best time to trek mountain gorillas?

Dry seasons are the best times to go on a trek to learn more about the foods that mountain gorillas eat. Because they get less rainfall, the dry seasons are preferable. The dense ecosystem of the tropical rainforest is easier to navigate because of the little rainfall.
This is because, in contrast to when it rains, the grounds are stable and not slippery.

Here, the terms “dry seasons” apply to the dry window that runs from December to February, as well as June to September. It’s even better that it’s the holiday season. Nonetheless, the parks are open year-round and are frequented by visitors. It’s a healthy experience because the other seasons of the year are even less crowded. As a result, one makes the most of the vacation and explores more without feeling rushed.