Animals have an uncanny way of captivating us online, from endearing cat videos to stories of rescued animals overcoming adversity. But when a silverback gorilla in England named Ambam began walking on two legs like a human, he quickly gained viral fame. Ambam, a 6-foot-tall, 34-stone silverback, lives with his family at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park in Kent, England, and his unique bipedal ability has left both visitors and scientists in awe.
Ambam’s Unique Talent: Walking Upright Like a Human
Unlike most gorillas, who typically move on all fours, Ambam has mastered the ability to walk upright on two legs — a behavior that’s rarely seen in his species. This unusual talent makes him stand out among other silverbacks, and his resemblance to a human when he strolls across his enclosure has fascinated everyone who visits.
The inspiration behind Ambam’s two-legged walk is as fascinating as the act itself. According to the zookeepers and scientists at Port Lympne, Ambam learned to walk upright by observing his caregivers. Gorillas are known for their impressive cognitive abilities and often imitate behaviors they see regularly, which is how Ambam developed his signature move. Unlike other zoo animals that are trained to perform tricks, Ambam’s skill is entirely self-taught, making it a remarkable example of observational learning in the animal kingdom.
A Star Among Silverbacks: Why Ambam Is Such a Fascinating Gorilla
Silverback gorillas are typically known for their strength, social structure, and gentle dominance over their groups, but Ambam’s unique ability has made him a standout even within this extraordinary species. Standing at 6 feet and weighing nearly 476 pounds (34 stone), his towering, upright posture only adds to his striking appearance. This unusual behavior has made him a star both online and at Port Lympne, where visitors gather to witness his human-like walk.
Though bipedal movement is occasionally observed in gorillas, it is usually short-lived, often for practical reasons like carrying food or surveying the surroundings. Ambam, however, can sustain this upright walk for longer periods, giving him a distinctly human-like demeanor that has delighted fans and intrigued scientists alike.
Behind the Scenes: How Port Lympne Staff Reacted to Ambam’s Talent
The scientists and caretakers at Port Lympne have been thrilled by Ambam’s walking skills. Observing this rare behavior offers researchers a unique opportunity to study gorilla cognition and physical capabilities. Since gorillas share around 98% of their DNA with humans, their behaviors can provide insights into our own evolution, particularly concerning the development of bipedalism.
Port Lympne’s staff have noted that Ambam’s bipedalism could have been influenced by practical needs, such as wanting a better view of his surroundings or keeping his hands free. However, the fact that he learned this behavior without direct training adds an element of mystery to his story, making him even more fascinating.
A Global Sensation: Ambam’s Online Popularity
It didn’t take long for Ambam’s unique ability to gain global attention. Videos of his human-like walk went viral, sparking fascination across the Internet. Social media platforms were abuzz with fans, with many marveling at his upright gait and his resemblance to a human. Ambam’s videos quickly garnered millions of views, and he has since become a beloved figure online, contributing to the internet’s endless fascination with animals who exhibit human-like behavior.
The Bigger Picture: How Animals Like Ambam Bring Us Closer to Wildlife
Ambam’s story highlights the bond we share with animals and reminds us of our evolutionary connection with gorillas, one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. His ability to mimic human behavior brings awareness to the intelligence and individuality of gorillas and other great apes, promoting empathy and conservation efforts for these remarkable animals. As humans continue to encroach on natural habitats, awareness campaigns spurred by viral stories like Ambam’s help drive support for conservation and wildlife protection.
Ambam’s Legacy: Inspiring Curiosity and Conservation
Ambam’s story is a testament to the wonders of animal intelligence and adaptability. His remarkable ability to walk on two legs doesn’t just entertain — it also sparks curiosity about animal behavior, evolution, and the unique personalities found in the animal world. His fame has brought increased attention to Port Lympne Wild Animal Park and their conservation efforts, as well as a reminder of the importance of protecting endangered species.
As Ambam continues to captivate audiences, he serves as a symbol of the intelligence, adaptability, and individuality that make animals like him so intriguing. Whether he’s an internet sensation or a beloved star at Port Lympne, Ambam’s story reminds us of our shared connection with the natural world and inspires us to cherish and protect it for generations to come.
