Gorilla Lifespan and Life Cycle: Mating, Pregnancy, Infants and Old Age
Gorillas live around 35 to 40 years in the wild and raise one infant at a time.
Wild gorillas live about 35 to 40 years, and longer in captivity. Females usually begin breeding around 10 years old and give birth to a single infant after a pregnancy of about eight and a half months. Infants stay close to their mothers for years, and females typically give birth every four years or so.
Males move from blackback to silverback at around 12 years. See silverback facts and what gorillas eat.
This guide is part of our animals of Uganda and East Africa guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Uganda tours and safari packages.
At a glance
- Wild lifespan: About 35 to 40 years
- Gestation: About 8.5 months
- Young: One infant
- Birth interval: About four years
Mating and Birth
Mating is within the family group and is controlled by the silverback. Females move between groups. Births are single and infants are nursed for several years.
Growing Up
Infants ride on their mothers and play with other young. Males become blackbacks as teenagers and silverbacks around 12 years.
Visit a Family
You may see infants on a trek. See gorilla permits.
Want to see them in the wild? Send us your dates and we will arrange permits and a guide.
Related Tours, Guides and Resources
- Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
- Uganda safari packages
- Uganda travel guide
- How to book a Uganda safari
- Plan your safari with our team
Itineraries That Include This Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Uganda Safari Pages
- Silverback Gorilla Facts: Strength, Speed, Behaviour and Role in the Group
- Gorilla Species and Subspecies: Mountain, Eastern Lowland, Western Lowland and Cross River
- Eastern Lowland Gorilla (Grauer's Gorilla): The Largest Gorilla and Where It Lives
- Are Gorillas Endangered? Population, Poaching and Conservation in Uganda
- Animals of Uganda and East Africa: Gorilla, Chimpanzee, Big Five and Bird Fact Guides
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