i86 Lloyd's natural history. 



of the hand. When it assumes the walking posture, to which 

 it is said to be much inclined, it balances its huge body by 

 flexing its arms upward. 



The Gorilla has the power of moving the scalp freely forward 

 and backward — as Man in many instances has the power of 

 doing — and, when enraged, of corrugating his brows and erecting 

 the hair over the central bony crest " so as to present an in- 

 describably ferocious aspect." He is capable of emitting a 

 " terrific yell that resounds far and wide through the forest " ; 

 and when shot his cry is like that of a human being in sudden 

 and acute distress. The Gorilla is very ferocious and never 

 runs away, as the Chimpanzee does ; he advances to attack his 

 enemies, but according to some observers, however, only when 

 molested, rushing forward in a stooping attitude, then rising to 

 his feet to strike. He is also credited with fighting with his 

 teeth, as well as his hands, biting his antagonist, as the Orangs 

 and the Chimpanzees do. He exhibits great intelligence, 

 though less, perhaps, than the Chimpanzee. 



The females prove affectionate mothers, bravely protecting 

 their young at the cost of their own hves. "In a recent 

 case," writes Dr. Savage, " the mother, when discovered, 

 remained upon the tree with her offspring, watching intently 

 the movements of the hunter. As he took aim, she motioned 

 with her hand, precisely in the manner of a human being, 

 to have him desist and go away. When the wound has not 

 proved instantly fatal, they have been known to stop the 

 flow of blood by pressing with the hand upon the part, and 

 when this did not succeed to apply leaves and grass." 



The food of the Gorilla consists of all sorts of forest and 

 cultivated produce ; but the top of the fruiting stem of the oil- 

 palm (Elais guineensis)^ the Papaia (Carica)^ and plantains 



