On a recent shooting trip, I had the opportunity to see and photograph the interaction between a female gorilla and her new baby. I don't know how old the baby was, but I can't imagine it being more than a week or so. Gorillas have always struck me as one of those animals that while not typically violent in temperament, is one of those that probably doesn't let anyone or anything mess with them. They just look "badass", to put it in everyday terms. The interaction between this mother and her infant, was so incredibly humanlike, I was quite astounded as I had never seen anything quite like it in person. The males or "silverbacks" on the other hand, are not really into taking care of the kids, and are said to be there mainly for protection and to help youngsters socialize as they mature. I had to chuckle because once again, -in my mind-, I was making the correlation between them and some of us humans. I'm not saying that human males do not take part in parenting or help with the kids, but it is common knowledge that there are many amongst us that really don't do much of anything other than being a "sperm donor". Below are a couple of images from that day. Hope you get the opportunity to check out and learn about these magnificent animals at your local zoo, an animal sanctuary or if you get the opportunity to see them in the wild. Enjoy! -Mario Above ↑ - Mama Gorilla and her baby, bonding.
Below ↓ - Gorilla Daddy-o lounging and looking up at them as if saying "Yo babee, ...you're welcome!"
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