Gorillas in the Congo: A Study of Social Dynamics

Satellite cameras have uncovered hidden clearings, known as bys, in the rainforests of the Republic of Congo. These clearings are home to western lowland gorillas, where a dominant silverback leads a group of females and family members. The social dynamics within these groups are delicate, as demonstrated by a young male gorilla who attempts to challenge the silverback. Despite the young male's efforts, the silverback maintains his authority, restoring peace to the by.

What did satellite cameras recently uncover in the African rainforests?

• A large river system

• A lost city

• Hidden clearings known as 'bys'

• A new species of gorilla

Where are the 'bys' located?

• In the Republic of Congo

• In the Amazon Rainforest

• In Madagascar

• In the Sahara Desert

What is a notable feature of the dominant silverback gorilla?

• Bright blue eyes

• A long tail

• A waistcoat of white hair

• A golden mane

What role does the silverback play in the gorilla group?

• He is the group's entertainer

• He is the youngest member

• He is responsible for leadership and protection

• He is the primary food gatherer

What is the by compared to for the young male gorilla?

• A playground

• A battlefield

• A training ground

• A singles bar

How do the young females react to the new male gorilla?

• They leave the by

• They attack him

• They give him the once-over

• They ignore him

What is the silverback's reaction to the young male's presence?

• He welcomes him

• He ignores him completely

• He is wary and eventually confronts him

• He leaves the by

What happens when the young male tries to impress the females?

• He finds a mate immediately

• He is accepted into the group

• He is ignored by everyone

• He creates a spectacle

What is the outcome of the confrontation between the silverback and the young male?

• They both leave the by

• The young male wins

• The young male retreats

• The silverback is defeated

What is restored after the young male leaves?

• A new leader

• A sense of chaos

• A new group of gorillas

• Peace in the by