The Google Googly for today: Large, strong, and kind, gorillas inhabit the jungles of Central Africa. The daily routines of gorillas in the wild are unpredictable since they are our closest cousins. Among the most frequent queries is “where do gorillas sleep?” Do they cuddle up in nests like birds or slumber in gloomy tunnels like bears?

Caves Are Not Where Gorillas Sleep:

The fact that gorillas don’t sleep in caves may surprise you. Every evening, just before sunset, they build their nests, or beds. These nests are made of leaves, twigs, and branches and are built either high in the trees or on the forest floor. Adult male gorillas prefer the ground, while females and babies often nest in trees to shield themselves from insects and other animals.

Why Do Gorillas Not Live in Caves?

Caves are not a good environment for gorillas.

They are usually dark, chilly, and crowded with insects and snakes, and they are rare in the tropical woods where gorillas live. Furthermore, since they don’t spend all of their evenings in one location, gorillas don’t need a permanent home like a cave. It is thus safer and more prudent for them to build fresh nests each night.

The Craft of Nest Construction:

Watching a gorilla build a nest is like watching a competent professional at work. They carefully choose a spot, collect soft leaves, and set everything up to make a cozy, circular bed. Some even produce little backrests or headrests. The whole procedure just takes five to ten minutes, yet it shows how thoughtful and intelligent the creatures are.

Every Gorilla Constructs a Nest:

This nesting pattern is followed by all gorilla species, including lowland and mountain gorillas. It’s a part of their everyday routine and reveals a lot about their intelligence and concern for cleanliness and comfort. By keeping parasites and pathogens at bay, nesting also contributes to gorilla health. Babies usually sleep with their moms while other family members build nests nearby to create a close-knit and caring community.

Nests Are Important Even in Zoos:

Even in zoos where they are kept in cages, gorillas like to make cozy resting spaces using blankets, straw, or any other soft things that are available. They constantly have the natural need to build a nest, regardless of their location.

Always Nests Over Caves:

Do gorillas sleep in nests or caverns, then? The answer is straightforward and obvious: nests.

Their exceptional intellect, flexibility, and connection to nature are shown by this lovely evening ritual. Although gorillas don’t need roofs or walls, they can make the ideal resting area in the midst of the jungle with a few leaves and a little ingenuity.