Types of Gorillas in Africa – Species, Habitats & Key Differences

Gorillas are the largest primates on Earth and one of our closest relatives, sharing around 98% of our DNA. Native to the forests of Central and West Africa, gorillas are divided into two species and four subspecies. Each has unique characteristics, behavior, and habitat preferences. In this article, we explore all types of gorillas in Africa, including their range, appearance, and conservation status.

How Many Types of Gorillas Are There?

There are two main species of gorillas:

• Eastern gorilla (Gorilla beringei)
• Western gorilla (Gorilla gorilla)

Each species is further divided into two subspecies, making a total of four types of gorillas in Africa.

1. Mountain Gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei)

Mountain gorillas are perhaps the most famous of all gorilla subspecies, thanks to their high-altitude habitat and conservation success stories. They are found in the forested mountains of:

• Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park
• Uganda – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga
• Democratic Republic of the Congo – Virunga National Park

Key Traits:

• Thicker fur to survive cold mountain climates
• Smaller population – around 1,000 individuals
• Critically Endangered status (now upgraded to Endangered)

2. Eastern Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla beringei graueri)

Also known as the Grauer’s gorilla, the eastern lowland gorilla is the largest of all gorilla subspecies. These gorillas inhabit the dense lowland rainforests of eastern DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo).

Key Traits:

• Broad chest, strong jaw, and large hands
• More terrestrial than other gorillas
• Population declining due to conflict and habitat loss

3. Western Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla)

The western lowland gorilla is the most numerous and widespread of all gorilla subspecies. Found in the tropical forests of:

• Cameroon
• Gabon
• Congo (Brazzaville)
• Equatorial Guinea
• Central African Republic

Key Traits:

• Smaller and lighter than other subspecies
• Brownish-gray coat with a reddish crown
• Often seen in zoos around the world

4. Cross River Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli)

The Cross River gorilla is the rarest and most endangered gorilla subspecies, with fewer than 300 individuals remaining. They inhabit the remote forested mountains between Nigeria and Cameroon.

Key Traits:

• Shy and elusive with smaller group sizes
• Slightly smaller skull and shorter jaws than western lowland gorillas
• Threatened by habitat fragmentation and hunting

Comparison Table: Types of Gorillas

Conservation Efforts Across Africa

Each gorilla type faces threats from habitat destruction, poaching, and disease. Conservation efforts include:

• The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund – focused on mountain gorillas
• WWF Gorilla Conservation Programs
• Protected areas like Virunga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Final Thoughts

From the icy mountain slopes to the lowland jungles of Central Africa, gorillas remain one of our planet’s most incredible and endangered mammals. By understanding the types of gorillas in Africa, we can better support conservation efforts and ensure their survival for generations to come.