What to Do When a Gorilla Charges at You – A gorilla charges when it senses danger, feels insecure, or is in a bad mood.
A gorilla charge is characterized by the gorilla thumping its chest several times, grunting loudly, slapping the ground, and releasing a strong odor that can be smelled by humans from about 26 yards away. This is done to mark its territory.
At this stage, the gorilla is very aggressive and dangerous. It is important to stay safe in the most appropriate way possible.
Below is what you can do when a gorilla charges at you:
- Gently Study the Gorilla’s Behavior: This helps you identify the best safety action to take if the gorilla grabs you or tugs at your clothes.
- Stay Calm: Remain still and do not scream or run away. Act normally and try to calm the situation.
- Avoid Direct Eye Contact: Direct eye contact is considered provocative and intimidating. It may provoke the gorilla to harm you immediately.
- Crouch Down and Make Yourself Small: This makes the gorilla see you as a small, non-threatening ape. It may calm down instead of attacking you.
- Be Submissive and Quiet: During a gorilla charge, the gorilla might bite, tear, or slap you. Do not fight back. Remember, a gorilla is much stronger than a human.
- Carry Out Grooming: Gently groom the gorilla’s hand while loudly smacking your lips. This distracts the gorilla in a non-threatening way.
- Move Slowly When the Gorilla Relaxes: When the gorilla’s grip relaxes, gently move your hand to the gorilla’s hand. Show interest in any vegetation nearby.
- Remain Calm and Passive: Stay calm and passive until help arrives or the gorilla loses interest in you. Trying to remove the gorilla’s hand may provoke it and lead to harm.
It is very important to stay calm when dealing with gorillas, whether during a charge or while trekking.
