Cross River Gorilla – Complete Guide | Gorilla gorilla diehli
October 21, 2023 
written by Sidra Batool
written by Sidra BatoolThe Cross River Gorilla, scientifically known as Gorilla gorilla diehli, is a critically endangered subspecies of the Western gorilla.
Cross River Gorilla
Here’s some information about Cross River Gorillas:
| Topic | Information |
| Scientific Classification | – Kingdom: Animalia |
| – Phylum: Chordata | |
| – Class: Mammalia | |
| – Order: Primates | |
| – Family: Hominidae | |
| – Genus: Gorilla | |
| – Species: Gorilla gorilla | |
| – Subspecies: Gorilla gorilla diehli | |
| Physical Characteristics | – Size: Cross River Gorillas are the smallest subspecies of gorilla, with males typically weighing between 300 and 430 pounds (136 to 195 kilograms) and females weighing less. |
| – Coat: They have black to brownish-black fur. | |
| Natural Habitat and Range | Cross River Gorillas are found in a small and fragmented range along the border between Nigeria and Cameroon in the Cross River region. |
| Behavior and Lifestyle | – Herbivores: They primarily feed on a diet of leaves, stems, fruits, and other vegetation. |
| – Social Structure: Cross River Gorillas live in small family groups led by a dominant male, known as a silverback. | |
| – Endangered Status: They are one of the most endangered gorilla subspecies, with an estimated population of fewer than 300 individuals. | |
| Reproduction and Life Cycles | – Reproduction: Their reproductive rates are relatively slow, with females giving birth to a single infant after a gestation period of around 8.5 months. |
| Predators and Threats | The main threats to Cross River Gorillas are habitat loss due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and hunting. |
| Conservation Efforts | Conservation organizations are working to protect the Cross River Gorilla and their habitat. Efforts include the establishment of protected areas and community education to reduce hunting and habitat destruction. |
| Interesting Facts and Features | – Elusive Nature: Cross River Gorillas are known for their elusive behavior, which makes them difficult to study and conserve. |
| – Cultural Significance: They hold cultural and spiritual significance for some local communities. | |
| Relationship with Humans | Traditional beliefs and hunting have historically posed significant threats to their population, but there is a growing awareness of the need for their protection. |
| Conservation Status and Life Today | Cross River Gorillas are classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their small population and habitat fragmentation make them highly vulnerable to extinction. |
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