Eastern Gorilla Size vs. Western Gorilla Size

Attribute	Eastern Gorilla Size	Western Gorilla Size
Weight	200-250 kg	140-200 kg
Height	1.7-1.8 m	1.5-1.7 m
Arm Span	2.4-2.6 m	2.3-2.5 m
Head Size	Large	Large

Physical Characteristics

Eastern gorillas, which include both the Eastern lowland gorilla and the Mountain gorilla, are the largest primates in the world. They have a robust build with broad chests and shoulders, as well as strong arms and hands. The Eastern lowland gorilla is slightly larger than the Mountain gorilla, with males weighing between 300-400 pounds and standing up to 6 feet tall. In comparison, Western gorillas, which consist of the Western lowland gorilla and the Cross River gorilla, are slightly smaller in size. Western lowland gorillas typically weigh between 150-400 pounds and stand around 5 feet tall, while Cross River gorillas are even smaller, with males weighing around 300 pounds and standing up to 5.5 feet tall.

Facial Features

One of the key differences between Eastern and Western gorillas is their facial features. Eastern gorillas have a broader face with a larger skull and a more pronounced brow ridge. Their noses are also wider and more prominent compared to Western gorillas. In contrast, Western gorillas have a narrower face with a smaller skull and a less prominent brow ridge. Their noses are more pointed and less pronounced than those of Eastern gorillas.

Coat Color

Another distinguishing feature between Eastern and Western gorillas is their coat color. Eastern gorillas have a darker coat, ranging from black to dark brown, which helps them blend in with their forest habitat. In comparison, Western gorillas have a lighter coat, ranging from light brown to gray, with some individuals even having a reddish tint to their fur. This lighter coat color is thought to be an adaptation to their habitat in the dense rainforests of Central and West Africa.

Behavioral Differences

Eastern and Western gorillas also exhibit differences in their behavior. Eastern gorillas, particularly the Mountain gorilla, are known for their peaceful and gentle nature. They live in cohesive family groups led by a dominant silverback male, who is responsible for protecting and guiding the group. In contrast, Western gorillas, especially the Western lowland gorilla, are more solitary and territorial. They live in smaller family groups and are less tolerant of other gorillas encroaching on their territory.

Dietary Habits

Both Eastern and Western gorillas are primarily herbivores, with their diet consisting mainly of fruits, leaves, stems, and shoots. However, there are some differences in their dietary habits. Eastern gorillas, particularly the Mountain gorilla, have a preference for bamboo shoots, which make up a significant portion of their diet. They also consume a variety of other plant species found in their montane forest habitat. On the other hand, Western gorillas, especially the Western lowland gorilla, have a more varied diet that includes a higher proportion of fruits and terrestrial vegetation. They also have been known to supplement their diet with insects and small animals.

Conservation Status

Both Eastern and Western gorillas are classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The main threats to their survival include habitat loss due to deforestation, poaching for the bushmeat trade, and diseases such as Ebola. Eastern gorillas, particularly the Mountain gorilla, have seen some success in conservation efforts, with their population increasing in recent years. In comparison, Western gorillas, especially the Cross River gorilla, remain at high risk of extinction due to their small population size and fragmented habitat.