What to Do When a Gorilla Charges at You
Gorillas, particularly mountain gorillas, are among the most fascinating and powerful primates in the wild. Found only in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, these majestic creatures share 98% of their DNA with humans, making them strikingly similar to us in behavior and social structure. Despite their immense strength equivalent to 5-8 adult human males gorillas are generally shy and peaceful unless provoked. However, when they feel threatened, they may charge as a display of dominance or defense. Knowing how to react in such a situation can mean the difference between a safe encounter and a dangerous confrontation.
Understanding Gorilla Behavior
Before diving into what to do when a gorilla charges, its essential to understand why they might behave aggressively. Gorillas are highly intelligent and social animals that live in tight-knit family groups led by a dominant silverback. Their aggression is usually a response to perceived threats, such as:
-
Eye Contact In the wild, prolonged eye contact is seen as a challenge to dominance. If a gorilla feels you are asserting dominance, it may charge to establish its authority.
-
Encroaching on Their Space Getting too close or blocking their path can make them feel trapped, leading to defensive behavior.
-
Sudden Movements or Loud Noises Quick actions or loud sounds can startle them, triggering a fight-or-flight response.
-
Bright Colors or Reflective Items Wearing flashy clothing or sunglasses can pique their curiosity, but it may also unsettle them if they perceive it as a threat.
By recognizing these triggers, you can minimize the risk of provoking an aggressive response.
Steps to Take When a Gorilla Charges
If a gorilla charges at you, staying calm and following these steps can help de-escalate the situation:
1. Stay Calm and Freeze
The most crucial step is not to panic. Gorillas often perform mock charges bluffing to intimidate without intending physical harm. If you remain still, the gorilla may stop before making contact.
-
Do not run Running triggers their predatory instincts, and gorillas can easily outrun humans.
-
Avoid sudden movements Jerking or flailing can be interpreted as aggression.
2. Avoid Direct Eye Contact
As mentioned earlier, staring directly at a gorilla is seen as a challenge. Instead:
-
Look down or to the side This signals submission and reduces the perceived threat.
-
Keep your head slightly lowered This non-threatening posture helps avoid confrontation.
3. Crouch Down and Make Yourself Small
Gorillas respect displays of submission. To appear non-threatening:
-
Bend your knees slightly This makes you less imposing.
-
Avoid standing tall or spreading your arms Dominant postures can provoke further aggression.
4. Speak Softly (If Necessary)
If the gorilla continues to approach, speaking in a low, soothing voice may help.
-
Use a calm tone This reassures the gorilla that you are not a threat.
-
Avoid loud noises or screaming Sudden sounds can escalate the situation.
5. Back Away Slowly (If Possible)
If the gorilla stops charging but remains tense, you may slowly retreat.
-
Move sideways rather than turning your back This keeps you in a less vulnerable position.
-
Do not make sudden turns or run Gradual movement is key.
6. If Contact Occurs, Play Dead
In the rare event that a gorilla makes physical contact:
-
Roll into a ball Protect your head and vital organs.
-
Remain still until the gorilla loses interest Fighting back will only worsen the situation.
Why These Strategies Work
Gorillas, despite their strength, prefer to avoid unnecessary conflict. Their charges are often bluffing displays rather than genuine attacks. By demonstrating submission and non-aggression, you communicate that you are not a threat, allowing the gorilla to stand down.
Additionally, gorillas are protective of their families. If a silverback perceives danger to its group, it will act defensively. By staying calm and non-threatening, you reduce the likelihood of triggering a full-blown attack.
Preventing Gorilla Charges in the First Place
The best way to stay safe is to avoid provoking gorillas altogether. Follow these guidelines when in their habitat:
-
Maintain a Safe Distance Always stay at least 7 meters (23 feet) away.
-
Follow Guide Instructions Park rangers and guides are trained in gorilla behavior listen to their advice.
-
Avoid Flash Photography Bright lights can startle gorillas.
-
Keep Your Voice Low Loud conversations can disturb them.
-
Do Not Eat or Drink Near Them Food scents may attract unwanted attention.
Real-Life Examples of Gorilla Encounters
There have been instances where humans have successfully navigated gorilla charges by following these protocols:
-
Dian Fossey Observations The renowned primatologist often emphasized that submissive behavior was key to gaining gorillas’ trust.
-
Tourist Encounters in Rwanda & Uganda Many visitors who remained calm during mock charges reported that the gorillas eventually lost interest and moved away.
These examples highlight that understanding gorilla behavior is the best defense.
Conclusion
Encountering a charging gorilla can be terrifying, but knowing how to react can prevent harm. The key takeaways are:
Stay calm and freeze Do not run or make sudden movements.
Avoid eye contact Look down or to the side to show submission.
Crouch down and appear small This reduces perceived threat.
Back away slowly if possible Do not turn your back abruptly.
Follow preventive measures Keeping a safe distance minimizes risks.
Gorillas are magnificent creatures that deserve respect and caution. By understanding their behavior and responding appropriately, humans can safely observe these incredible animals in their natural habitat.
