Family statistics
Family Size: 17
Silverback: SAFARI, RAFIKI
Blackback: Bahati, Kirungi, POSHO, Karibu
Adult Female: Kwetonda, Kasotora, MAMA XMAS, SAMEHE
Juvenile: RAMUTWE, MAGARA, KWESIMA, Kuhirwa
Infant: TABU, Fulaha, Katungi & Muhozi “The Twins”
This Bwindi gorilla family was opened for tourism in 2004. Nkuringo is the Rukiga word for round hill. The group was first spotted and targeted for habituation at a hill named Nkuringo. This hill is not peaked and can be distinguished by its rounded crest. In the first few months of contact with the group, the habituating trackers noted that it was under the leadership of an elderly silverback, who they naturally named Nkuringo.
However, even then, Nkuringo’s son, Safari, had began calling the shots and, as heir-apparent, he had apparently taken over most of the leadership responsibilities. The aged Nkuringo died on 27th April, 2008, leaving behind two silverbacks in the group, Safari and Rafiki. This meant that the threat of a leadership showdown was expected. How did the situation resolve itself? Was there a battle of biblical proportions to determine dominance? Find out by ‘friending’ the silverbacks of the Nkuringo family to see how the situation was resolved.
You can also book a Visit Bwindi gorilla safari today to experience the best trekking experience.