Discover Why This Gorilla Has Captivated The Internet With Just One Turn
In the fascinating world of wildlife, primates hold a special place due to their close genetic link to humans. This connection offers us a mirror reflecting our evolutionary past while also providing a unique perspective on the complexity of the animal kingdom.
Among these creatures, a particular gorilla in England showcases behaviors that blur the line between human and animal, making him a subject of both scientific curiosity and public admiration.
Ambam, a 27-year-old western lowland gorilla residing at the Port Lympne Wild Animal Park near Hythe, Kent, stands out from his peers. Unlike most gorillas, Ambam frequently walks upright, balancing on his hind legs—a posture reminiscent of humans.
This unusual behavior has not only turned him into a local celebrity but has also attracted global attention through viral videos capturing his bipedal antics. While gorillas can stand on two legs, they usually do not do so as often as Ambam.
Seeing him walk like a human is truly fascinating and prompts us to wonder why some gorillas behave differently from others. Phil Ridges, who cares for the gorillas at the park, states that all gorillas can stand up a little, but Ambam, his sister Tamba, and her young son Kabale are particularly adept at it.
Ambam’s life has been noteworthy from the start. Born in 1990 at Howletts, an affiliated site of Port Lympne, he faced challenges early on. At just one year old, he fell ill and could no longer stay with his mother, Shumba.
This required him to be hand-raised for several months, an experience that may have influenced his unique behaviors. Weighing in at 220 kg, Ambam is now the heaviest gorilla at the park, and he lives within the expected lifespan of 30 to 50 years for his species.
The backdrop to Ambam’s story is a sobering reality for western lowland gorillas. Residing in some of Africa's densest and most remote rainforests, their population has experienced a significant decline.
Over the past two to three decades, numbers have decreased by more than 60%, primarily due to poaching and habitat loss. This stark decline highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these creatures and their environments.
Ambam’s fame brings much-needed attention to the plight of his species and the broader conservation issues facing our planet’s wildlife. He is a compelling example of how individual animals can become ambassadors for their species, helping to foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of wildlife among the public.
Video from Port Lympne Wild Animal Park near Hythe has made him famous worldwide for his uncanny ability to walk like a human.
Ambam.
He frequently stands on his hind legs for long periods, walking upright.
"R.I.P AMBAM the Gorilla that stands & walks like a MAN!, Swaggers & TWERKS too! "
While it's amazing to see Ambam act like a human, we must remember the larger issues his species faces globally. His story is more than just about a gorilla that can walk on two legs; it's a reminder that we need to protect the variety of life on Earth.
It shows us why it's important to help preserve wildlife so that future generations can also enjoy and learn from these incredible creatures.
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