- By Shailvee Tiwari
- Thu, 22 May 2025 11:24 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Today's Google Googly: Gorillas are big, powerful, yet gentle animals living in Central Africa's rainforests. In the wild, gorillas are our closest relatives, so their daily schedules are unpredictable. "Where do gorillas sleep?" is one of the most commonly asked questions. Do they sleep in dark caverns like bears or curl up in nests like birds?
Gorillas Don’t Sleep In Caves:
You might be surprised to learn that gorillas don't sleep in caves. They construct their beds, known as nests, every evening right before sunset. These nests are constructed on the forest floor or high in the trees and are composed of leaves, twigs, and branches. While females and younger gorillas frequently nest in trees to protect themselves from insects and other animals, adult males tend to prefer the ground.
Why Caves Aren’t For Gorillas?
Gorillas don't do well in caves. They are uncommon in the tropical forests that are home to gorillas and are typically dark, cold, and teeming with snakes and insects. Additionally, gorillas don't need a permanent home like a cave because they don't spend all of their nights in one place. For this reason, it is safer and wiser for them to construct new nests every evening.
The Art Of Nest Building:
It's like witnessing a skilled worker at work when you watch a gorilla construct a nest. To create a comfortable, round bed, they meticulously select a location, gather soft leaves, and arrange everything. Some even make tiny headrests or backrests. Even though the entire process only takes five to ten minutes, it demonstrates the animals' intelligence and consideration.
All Gorillas Build Nests:
All types of gorillas, whether mountain gorillas or lowland ones, follow this nesting routine. It’s part of their daily life and tells us a lot about their cleverness and how much they care about comfort and cleanliness. Nesting also helps gorillas stay healthy by avoiding germs and parasites. In order to form a close-knit and nurturing group, babies typically sleep with their mothers while other family members establish nests close by.
Even In Zoos, Nests Matter:
Gorillas prefer to create comfortable sleeping areas with blankets, straw, or any other soft materials available, even in zoos where they are housed in enclosures. No matter where they are, they always have the innate desire to construct a nest.
Nests Over Caves – Always:
So, do gorillas sleep in caves or nests? The response is clear-cut and simple: nests. This beautiful nightly ritual highlights their extraordinary intelligence, adaptability, and connection to nature. Gorillas don't need walls or roofs, but with a few leaves and a little creativity, they can create the perfect sleeping space in the middle of the forest.