Gorillas are gentle, intelligent animals that have long been misunderstood as ferocious beasts. Their undeserved reputation stems from intimidating actions like chest-beating done by the mature male, or silverback, when he feels his family is in danger. This awe-inspiring show of force helps to protect gorillas against predators. The size and strength of this great ape has ensured its success in the wild against every species except man. Gorillas are found in the wild only in Africa.
Gorillas live in family groups called troops.
The troop travels during the day foraging for food. At night they make nests in the trees out of branches and leaves. Bonobos are sometimes referred to as pygmy chimpanzees. However, they are not simply a smaller version of the other chimpanzee species, but a species of their own. Bonobos have relatively longer legs, narrow shoulders, and smaller ears, as well as a dark face and long hair that parts in the middle.