The forest biome is full of wild animals. It is home to thousands of species. Among the several species, a gorilla is one of them. The gorilla is a renowned animal mostly found in central Africa. The term ‘Gorilla’ is itself a genus of animals that portrays numerous species. It is regarded as one of the biggest animals in the world. Having 98% of their DNA similar to humans, gorillas act, behave, walk and eat like a human.

Gorillas and their Habitat

Gorillas are widely divided into two categories: eastern and western Gorillas. Both eastern and western gorillas are found in central Africa. Gorillas that live on the eastern side of central Africa are eastern gorillas. However, gorillas in the west of central Africa are western gorillas. Not only this, zoologists further distinguish the eastern and western gorillas based on zones. Some are mountain gorillas and others are lowland gorillas. According to the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the estimated number of western gorillas is around 316,000 and eastern gorillas are about 5000 in the world. Among the list of endangered species, gorillas are one of them.

What Do Gorillas Eat?

Gorillas are renowned as herbivores as they survive on eating plants. Plants are their basic diet. What gorillas eat mainly depends on the availability of plants or insects in a habitat. The variety of plants depends on the season as well. The central basin of Africa is replete with varieties of wild trees and plants. Among many others, the flora of central Africa includes Mahogany, Ebony, Limba, Wenge, Agba, Iroko, and Sapele. According to studies, an adult gorilla male eats about 30 kg of plants per day, whereas an adult female ingests 18 kg of plants. 

What do Mountain Gorillas Eat?

Gorillas living in mountains have a different diet than that of lowland gorillas. In central Africa, the mountainous gorillas live around 7000 to 14000 meters above sea level. At that height, there is a lack of fruit. So, gorillas eat parts of green plants there. They eat plants such as Plumbago, Proteas, Strelitzia, Wildflowers, and Flowering bushes. Research shows that mountain gorillas eat 38 various plant species. There are mainly Galium, thistles, celery, and nettles.

What do Lowland Gorillas Eat?

Lowland has a vast reservoir of fruit species. It has numerous long trees where gorillas get fruits. They also eat roots and seeds. The preferred fruits of lowland gorillas are berries, bananas, and guavas. They also love to eat the leaves of trees. Around 80% of gorillas’ diet is leaves, stems, and shoots. African lowland gorillas also like to feed on bamboo fruit. In the dry season, gorillas survive by eating a few juicy fruits from African rainforests. Zoologists have reported that there are around 200 plant species that are eaten by western gorillas. The plants of ginger and arrowroot families are their favorite feed. 

What do Wild, Captive, and Baby Gorillas eat?

As mentioned above, the diet of gorillas is reliable on habitat. Therefore, the nutrition of a gorilla also changes when a gorilla is captive, wild, or a baby gorilla.

Diet of Wild Gorillas

• Fruits and Plants

There are two natural habitats of wild gorillas: mountains and lowlands. It is mentioned above that the food of both categories of gorillas varies from one another. Seasons also play a vital role in gorillas’ regular diet. Western gorillas eat the leaves of a tree and numerous plant species. However, fruit is the common diet of eastern gorillas. 30% of the food of eastern gorillas is reliable on fruits there. Bananas, guava, berries, and cherries are their most liked fruit. Plants that gorillas eat in central Africa include Hibiscus, Succulents, Papyrus, Petunias, Plumbago, Proteas, Strelitzia, Wildflowers, and Flowering bushes.

• Insects

When there is a lack of a vegetarian diet, wild gorillas consume insects. Commonly, gorillas eat termites, ants, and grubs. When available, the weaver ant (Oecophylla longinoda) is the species gorillas eat frequently. Collectively, this wild animal eats three species of small ants. It is also noted that the wild mountain gorillas fill their appetite by eating invertebrates (insects) regularly. Research by Isra Deblauwe in Cameroon mentions that there is a large quantity of insect-eating gorillas. 

• Soil

Surprisingly, wild gorillas do eat soil as well occasionally. Along with plants, they get minerals from the soil as well. Soil consists of minerals that are not available in plants. Zoologists have found that minerals in soil counter the poisonous elements present in plants and trees.

Diet of Captive Gorillas

Captive gorillas are selective feeders. They are mainly frugivorous, feeding on fruit. Gorillas in amusement parks, zoos, and other bound places eat fruits including bananas, apples, guavas, and berries. These are the common foods consumed by captive gorillas. It is found that a captive gorilla requires food six times a day. A variety of foliage is also part of their diet in zoos. Some zoos also feed gorillas on processed cereals. However, cereals are a rare treat, not a natural diet. As the access to insects is quite less in zoos, captive gorillas hardly have insects to consume. 

Diet of Baby Gorillas

A baby gorilla weighs only approximately 4.5 pounds. They are found strong as compared to other baby animals. Mother’s milk is the pivotal diet for baby gorillas. They spend most of their time with their mothers and grip on mothers’ bodies. They wean off mothers’ milk after around two to three years of age. After that period, baby gorillas are considered an adult. They start eating what adult gorillas consume. Fruit, stem, and leaves become their regular diet. However, it is also observed that a few toddler gorillas eat some insects as well.

Some Interesting Facts about Gorillas

• A Powerful Animal: You cannot judge gorillas with their size. Gorillas are ten times more powerful than their actual size.
• A Strong Bite: Lion’s bite force is renowned worldwide. However, a gorilla’s bite force is double that of a lion.
• Unique Nose-prints: Like human beings, gorillas have specific nose prints. Scientists can distinguish gorillas as per their nose-print.
• An Intelligent Animal: Gorillas are considered one of the wisest animals. A female gorilla, KOKO, is renowned for its wit.
• DNA Similar to Human: Studies show that the similarities between human and gorillas’ DNA are more than 95%.
• Less Need for Water: Due to their vegetarian and foliage diet, gorillas get water naturally.

END NOTES

A strong wild animal, the gorilla, finds its diet in fruits, leaves, stems, shoots, and roots. The food of gorillas varies from habitat to habitats such as mountain and lowland. It is commonly found that gorillas are herbivores. However, they eat insects occasionally.

Lion, a wild animal, belongs to the cat species. It is widely found in different habitats including grasslands, savanna, and forests of Africa and India. The body features of a lion include a deep chest, a round head, and a fluffy, hairy tail. Lion is commonly known for its strength and powerful skills of killing other animals. Being a carnivore, it is a predator of other fleshy creatures in the forest. It usually becomes active at night and makes their living in different natural environments. However, the situation in forests does not remain the same. As every predator becomes someone’s prey, there are also lion predators. In the forest biome, some animals eat lions. Some carnivores attack them for their flesh, while others just eat dead lions. Numerous animals kill and eat lions in several conditions.

Lion Predators: Animals that Eat Lion

In most cases, lions remain predators that eat other animals and vice versa are quite rare. However, the nature of competition among creatures is unavoidable. Both food and territory are the common reasons behind the fights among animals. Hence, there are few predators whose prey is a lion. They attack, kill and eat lions. Hyenas, leopards, and wild dogs are the ones who attack and kill lions. Following are the animals the noted animals that are known as lion predators.

1-Hyenas

Hyenas are one of the common species of large carnivores. They are usually found in the forests of Africa. These scavengers show in spotted and non-spotted shades. Having a large physique and a diagonal back, hyenas are so smart at killing animals. In the case of lions, hyenas are their bitter enemies. Hyenas usually eat dead lions but they also kill cubs. Among the natural competitions in forests, hyenas and lions are fierce enemies. They try to steal one another’s food regularly. Therefore, hyenas have become common predators of lions.

2-Leopards

In lion’s predators, leopards are also so prominent. Living in the same habitat, both, lions and leopards strive to get food from the same prey. Both remain in search of flesh. Due to such similar traits, they often become predators of each other. However, leopards usually avoid killing adult lions as they are stronger and have leverage on leopards. But the wilderness of leopards often comes on single lioness and lion cubs. When cubs, for example, are without protection and left alone in the jungle, leopards get an opportunity to make them prey. They roam across the forests to find their prey. When they find a chance to kill a lion, they attack them fiercely.

3-African wild dogs

African wild dog, also known as African hunting dogs is a wild canine, habitat of sub-Saharan Africa. They are small carnivore predators. When wild dogs fight against lions, they remain at loss usually. However, the situation does not remain the same. Wild dogs are too smart; they do not miss an opportunity to kill lions too. Wild dogs often stay aloof from strong male lions and attack lionesses and cubs that are left alone from the group. Similar to other lion predators, the African wild dogs attack lions to kill them and eventually eat lion cubs.

Crocodiles

Like lions, crocodiles are on the top of the food chain as there are quite a few animals that kill or eat crocodiles. Crocodiles are amphibians that live on both land and water. However, they spend most of their time in the water. So, they are condition-based predators of lions. They are known as ambush predators. Crocodiles attack them surprisingly when lions drink water from the pond having crocodiles. They become lions’ predators whenever they get a chance to kill them. It is usually noted that they kill lions in the evening when lions get exhausted and walk around the area of shallow waters. The heavy predators of lions wait for the right time to attack lions and make them their prey.

4-Rhinoceros

Rhinoceros are among the heaviest animals in the forest and grassland biome. Due to the massive body structure, rhinoceros make them a threat to lions. Sometimes, they also become prey to lions but lions have to be in large quantity to land this heavy animal. Rhino’s horn is an unavoidable threat to a lion. Rhino uses its horn as a weapon when it fights against animals. A sharp hit of a rhino’s horn can hurt a lion severely and sometimes that wound kills them.

5-Porcupine

Porcupine seems quite small and harmless as compared to other predators. But unsurprisingly, they can kill strong predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas. Their sharp, razor-edged, and intense spikes are its protecting and attacking weapon. Porcupine kills lions by wounding them severely. Such an attack can cause fatal infections in lions. In most cases, porcupine uses spikes as a defense weapon. But when it encounters any predator like a lion it attacks them with thorns. Resultantly, it is counted as a lion’s predator.

6-Hippopotamus

A hippopotamus is also a fierce animal having massive weight, a large mouth, and powerful jaws. Its sharply-edged canines are a potential threat to other predators. It can open its muscular jaw at 180 degrees. Though it is an herbivore, it has the strength and capability to kill other animals. In the case of lions, the hippopotamus kills lions when they attack them. While defending themselves, hippopotamuses become aggressive against lions. Their two-meter-long canines can cut the throat of a lion and break its bones.

7-Vultures

In the list of animals that eat lions, vultures are worth mentioning. Vultures are not the ones that attack lions or kill them. But they eat the flesh of dead lions that are either killed or died naturally. They remain to seek an opportunity of eating dead lions from the sky. A wide range of vultures comes to have the meat of a lion. The sharp and cone-shaped beak of vultures tears the lion’s flesh apart.

8-African Buffalo

Buffalo has also been recorded killing lions for their safety and security. This heavy-sized animal defends itself when lions attack them. In the lion and buffalo fight, African buffaloes give hard time to a lion. Large strong horns of buffalo are its weapons to protect itself and its calf. Another strengthening factor of buffaloes is that they roam in a herd. Therefore, a herd of adult buffaloes can kill a lion with ease.

Humans

There is often news of man-eater lions in different parts of the world. But do humans eat lions? Undoubtedly lion meat is not a regular meal for humans. However, there is a market for lion meat as well.

END NOTES

The lion is the pride of the forest. It remains at the top of the food chain and remains a predator of numerous wild animals. However, some animals become lion predators. Some kill a lion to eat them while others fight them for their safety.

Food is the most essential for the sustenance of any living being. Dogs, being omnivores, fill their stomach with meat, fruits, and vegetables. In most cases, dogs are considered carnivores and are fed meat. However, they are omnivores as per their anatomy, behavior, and feeding choices. Veterinarians suggest that fruits play vital importance in their healthy living dog’s nutrition. Fruits give dogs vitamins, fiber, potassium, and manganese. It is also pertinent to know what fruits dogs eat and what they avoid. Some fruits are too healthy for dogs while others are not.

Here is a table of fruits that are safe for dogs to eat, along with the benefits they provide:

Fruit	Benefits
Apples	Rich in antioxidants and fiber, which can help with digestion and maintain a healthy heart
Blueberries	High in antioxidants and vitamin C, which can boost the immune system and improve cognitive function
Strawberries	Low in calories and high in vitamin C, which can help with skin and coat health
Watermelon	Hydrating and high in antioxidants and vitamin C, which can help with skin and coat health
Cantaloupe	Hydrating and high in antioxidants, vitamin C and beta-carotene, which can help with skin and coat health
Bananas	Rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, which can help with digestion and cognitive function
Pineapple	Rich in vitamin C, manganese and bromelain, which can help with digestion and reduce inflammation

It’s important to note that fruits should only be given to dogs in moderation as they can be high in sugar and calories.

Healthy Fruits That Dogs Eat

According to renowned veterinarians, the following are the fruits that dogs eat and are healthy for them.

Watermelon: Dogs can eat watermelon. It is full of potassium, vitamin A and vitamin C. It is good and healthy for dogs once its rind and seeds are removed. Moreover, it keeps dogs hydrated during summer days.

Blueberries: Blueberries are viable for dogs as they are rich in antioxidants. In both, humans and canines, a blueberry protects cells. They are also replete with fiber and photochemical. Therefore, your dog’s bowels are kept healthy by eating blueberries.

Cucumbers: Dogs also eat cucumbers. For an overweight dog, cucumbers are so essential. If you want your dog to lose weight, feed them with cucumbers. Cucumbers contain a massive amount of vitamins and quite a few carbohydrates. Also, your dog will get vitamins K, C, and B1.

Apples: Dogs also eat apples. Apples benefit senior dogs by being a vital source of vitamins A and C. They also contain fiber and are low in fat and protein. Before feeding apples to dogs, their seeds and core should be removed. With all these benefits, apples are beneficial snacks for dogs.

Fruits that Dogs Should Eat in Moderation

Fruits are usually beneficial for dogs but not necessarily each fruit is given in large quantities. Many fruits are safe for dogs. However, they need special consideration and should be given occasionally or in moderation.

Bananas: As a low-calorie treat, bananas are profitable for dogs. Bananas are high in fiber, potassium, vitamins, and copper. They have less quantity of cholesterol and sodium. However, their high sugar content is dangerous for dogs. It should be given in limited quantity, not in a regular diet.

Cantaloupe: It is another sweet fruit that is eaten by dogs. It is also full of nutrients and is a vital source of fiber. For dogs, it must be used in moderation for its high sugar content. But this fruit is not viable for an overweight or diabetic dog.

Cranberries: They are also safe for dogs. Cranberries and dried cranberries are healthier for dogs when feed in limited quantities. However, some dogs avoid eating its tart flavor. Moderation in quantity is also necessary for feeding this fruit. Excessive use of cranberries can cause diarrhea in dogs. 

Mango: Dogs also eat mangoes but as an occasional treat. Filled with vitamins A, C, and E, this summer fruit gives a healthy combination to dogs. However, the hard pit of mango must be removed before feeding it to a dog, because its pit includes cyanide. It can become a choking hazard. Further, as it has high sugar, it should be used occasionally. 

Oranges: Oranges without peel can be the regular food of dogs. The peel can be hazardous to your dog’s stomach. Some dogs dislike oranges due to the strong smell of citrus. However, oranges are favorable for dogs’ health as they are a prominent source of vitamin C and fiber. Veterinarians suggest that for a better stomach, one should peel oranges before feeding them.

Peaches: Peaches are also recommended as safe for dogs. The occasional diet of fresh and frozen peaches can be an excellent source of vitamin A. They can also benefit dogs in fighting infections. One must cut out the pit as it contains cyanide. In summer, peaches can be a good summer treat for dogs. However, canned peaches should be kept away from dogs. 

Pears: Pear is a sweet fruit, rich in antioxidants. The bite-sized chunks of pear without pit and seeds can be healthier for dogs. Studies suggest that eating pears can decrease the stroke risk by around 50 percent. Pears treat also contains vitamin C and K for your dog.

Strawberries: Dogs also eat strawberries. The moderate treat of this fruit can nourish dogs with fiber and vitamins. An enzyme in strawberries is good for dogs’ teeth. However, the large sugar content in the fruit should be taken into consideration.

Pineapple: Dogs can safely eat pineapples. Once the outer peel and crown are scraped, a few chunks of pineapple become an excellent sweet treat for dogs. The tropical fruit is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

What fruits should dogs avoid?

Tomatoes

Dogs must stay away from tomatoes. Tomatoes’ ripe fruit is typically regarded as healthy for canines. Tomato’s green parts are poisonous due to a compound called solanine. To be safe, it’s advisable to avoid tomatoes altogether. A small quantity of this fruit is enough to make your dog ill. 

Grapes

Grapes should never be eaten by dogs. Regardless of the dog’s bread, sex or age, grapes have proven to be extremely poisonous for dogs. Raisins or dried grapes should also be kept away. Grapes can cause acute, unexpected renal failure because they are so poisonous.

Cherries

Dogs should not eat cherries. Cherry plants are poisonous to dogs because they contain cyanide. Because cyanide interferes with cellular oxygen transport, the blood cells of dogs don’t receive enough oxygen. If your dog consumes cherries, watch out for symptoms of cyanide poisoning such as dilated pupils, breathing problems, and red gums.

Avocado

Avocados can be a nutritious treat for dog owners but not for dogs. Avocados should not be offered to dogs due to the presence of a poisoning substance called Persin. This poison can cause vomiting in dogs and make their stomach sick. So, this fruit is much avoided in a dog treat.

Benefits of Eating Fruits

Fruits can be healthier for dogs in multiple ways. Following are the benefits that dogs get from eating healthier fruits:

· Excellent sources of vitamin A, B-6, C, E, and K 

· Proper digestion process

· Get fiber, calcium, and potassium

· Healthy hydrating content

· Clean teeth and freshen breath with overall oral health

END NOTES

Dogs can eat multiple fruits which are healthier for them. Yet some are poisonous too. For a nutritious and healthier treat for dogs, fruit can be an excellent diet. However, one is required to balanced approach while offering fruit to dogs.