In a mountain gorilla family only with one adult male, if the dominant silverback dies, the females and their offspring must find a new group to join because the new leader may harm them. Without the protection of their silverback father, the offspring are at risk, and joining a new group is a way to stay safe.  The silverback is the leader of the gorilla group, he makes all the decisions, helps settle arguments, and decides where the group goes, leading them to find food and ensuring everyone is safe and well. Younger male gorillas called Blackbacks between 8 and 12 years old support the silverback, they do not have the silver hair on their back like the older silverbacks but they play a crucial role in protecting the group.