So in this episode, we are focusing on male hierarchy, since it is the most critical factor in group life. And respecting the hierarchy is the first and most important rule in keeping a gorilla group cohesive. His clear leadership meant he was strongly respected by all members of the group, providing a clear sense of hierarchy. Our observers described him as strong but gentle, charismatic and authoritative. Cantsbee was so successful at this that he oversaw the group’s growth to a record 65 members, sired more offspring than any other male we’ve documented, and held the longest reign of power of any other silverback.Ĭantsbee was a very impressive and successful leader and was able to maintain dominance and respect throughout most of his adult life. He usually also has the best access to the females for mating. Mountain gorillas live in groups that are led by a dominant silverback (adult male), who must lead the group’s daily travels and activities, keep the group cohesive, and defend the group from outside intruders. Pablo formed the group in 1993, but was its leader for only one year, before yielding dominance to silverback Cantsbee, who would reign for the next 20+ years.
#Male mountain gorilla series#
This is the second in a series of articles chronicling the lives of the gorillas in a legendary mountain gorilla group named after former silverback Pablo, in honor of the group’s 25th anniversary.
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