Question: What kind of animal is a silverback?
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A gorilla.
A “silverback” is not a separate species of animal, but rather a mature male gorilla. This term is derived from the distinctive patch of silver hair that develops on the back of male gorillas as they mature. The silver hair starts appearing typically around the age of 12 and is a sign of adulthood and dominance.
Silverbacks are found among the two species of gorillas: the eastern gorilla and the western gorilla, each of which is further divided into two subspecies. Gorillas are the largest primates, native to the rainforests of central Sub-Saharan Africa.
A silverback serves as the leader of a group of gorillas, known as a troop, which can consist of anywhere from five to thirty members. The troop usually includes the silverback, several adult females (his mates), and their offspring.
Silverbacks are responsible for the safety and well-being of their troop. They make decisions on when the group eats, sleeps, and moves locations. When the troop is threatened, the silverback will fiercely protect it, even at the cost of his own life.
Despite their imposing physical presence and potential for great strength, gorillas, including silverbacks, are generally gentle and shy. They are herbivores, mainly feeding on leaves, shoots, and stems, along with some small invertebrates.
Silverbacks play a vital role in the social structure of gorilla troops and are crucial for the survival and continuity of these endangered primates. They are an iconic symbol of wildlife in central Africa and represent the need for ongoing conservation efforts.
