What to do when a Gorilla charges on you
What to do when a Gorilla charges on you. Encountering a charging gorilla can be an incredibly intimidating and potentially dangerous situation. Gorillas are powerful creatures, and it’s crucial to know how to respond calmly and responsibly when faced with such an encounter. In this blog post, we will provide you with essential tips and guidelines to help you stay safe and minimize the risk in such a scenario. Remember, the goal is to protect yourself while also ensuring the welfare of the gorilla.
Stay Calm and Avoid Eye Contact: The first and most crucial step is to remain calm. While it’s natural to feel afraid, panicking can escalate the situation further. Avoid direct eye contact with the gorilla, as this may be perceived as a challenge or threat. Instead, keep your head down and observe the gorilla using your peripheral vision.
Do Not Run: Running away from a charging gorilla can trigger its natural instinct to chase and catch prey. Gorillas are incredibly fast, and you won’t be able to outrun them. Running can also increase the gorilla’s aggression. Stay where you are and hold your ground.
Maintain a Non-Threatening Posture: Assume a non-threatening posture by crouching down and making yourself appear smaller. Keep your arms close to your body and avoid any sudden movements that may be misinterpreted as aggressive behavior. It’s important to convey that you are not a threat to the gorilla.
Speak Softly and Back Away Slowly: In a calm and soothing voice, speak softly to the gorilla. This can help to convey that you are not a threat and may potentially calm the gorilla down. Back away slowly, ensuring that you maintain eye contact while keeping your head down.
Create Distance: If the gorilla continues to charge or shows signs of aggression, it’s crucial to create distance between you and the gorilla. Seek cover behind trees, rocks, or any available objects that can act as a barrier. By putting physical distance between you and the gorilla, you reduce the likelihood of a direct encounter.
Avoid Direct Confrontation: Under no circumstances should you attempt to physically confront or provoke the gorilla. Aggressive gestures, throwing objects, or making loud noises can escalate the situation and put you in further danger. Always prioritize your safety and avoid any actions that may incite the gorilla.
Seek Help and Report the Incident: After the encounter, seek assistance from park rangers, guides, or authorities. They are trained to handle such situations and can provide you with further guidance and support. Reporting the incident is crucial for the safety of both humans and gorillas, as it helps park authorities monitor and address potential risks.
Conclusion: Encountering a charging gorilla can be an unnerving experience, but it’s important to remember that gorillas typically charge as a display of dominance rather than an intent to harm. By remaining calm, maintaining a non-threatening posture, and creating distance, you can increase your chances of a safe outcome. Always prioritize your safety and follow the guidance of park authorities. Remember, gorillas are remarkable creatures that deserve our respect and protection, even in challenging situations.