A gorilla is the largest and most powerful of all primates, the animal group that includes monkeys, chimpanzees, and humans. Adult male gorillas can weigh over 400 pounds and stand six feet tall, with massive chests and incredibly strong arms. Despite their intimidating size and strength, gorillas are generally gentle, peaceful animals that spend their days eating plants, playing with their families, and resting in the forests of central Africa.

Gorillas live in groups called troops, led by a mature male called a silverback because of the distinctive gray hair that develops on his back as he ages. The silverback protects his family and makes decisions about where the troop travels to find food. Young gorillas wrestle and climb trees much like human children play on playground equipment.

Sadly, gorillas are endangered, meaning their numbers have dropped dangerously low due to hunting and destruction of their forest homes. Conservation groups work to protect the remaining gorilla populations so these remarkable animals don't disappear forever.