The Busingye gorilla family is one of the gorilla families found in Bwindi impenetrable national park in southwestern Uganda. This family has an interesting history and unique characteristics making it noteworthy. 

The Busingye gorilla family was officially habituated in the year 2012 and its name means ‘’peace’’ which reflects the calm and harmonious nature of the members of the family. The family is led by a dominant silverback named Busingye, after whom the family is named. 

What makes this gorilla family special is their social structure and dynamics, unlike other gorilla families that have one dominant silverback, Busingye has got silverbacks. Busingye shares leadership with another silverback called Kakono. This dual leadership is relatively rare among gorilla families and adds a unique dynamic within the groups. 

It is also known for its size, as it has a relatively large number of members, including several adult females, juveniles and infants, making it a thriving and growing group. The large size provides visitors with the opportunity to witness a dynamic mix of interactions between different gorillas within the family. 

Observing the Busingye family during a trek experience is a treat for visitors, the family’s peaceful nature and the dual leadership dynamics make for interesting and captivating encounters. Visitors can witness the gorilla behaviour, such as feeding, grooming, playing and interacting with each other. 

The uniqueness of the Busingye family lies in its peaceful co-existence, dual leadership and size. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the complex social structures and behaviours of mountain gorillas, making it a remarkable and sought-after group to encounter during a visit to Bwindi National Park.

Composition and Membership

The Busingye family is composed of several members, each playing a unique role within the group. The family is led by two silverbacks, Busingye and Kakono, who share the responsibility of leadership. Both silverbacks are dominant males and are recognized as the leaders of the family. 

Alongside the silverbacks, Busingye consists of several adult females, who are the primary caregivers and play a role in the upbringing of young gorillas. These adult females are often referred to as adult mothers. 

In addition to adult females, there are also juveniles and infants in the family, juveniles are young gorillas who are no longer dependent on their mothers but have not yet reached maturity. They spend their time playing and learning from adult as well s developing their social skills. 

Infants are the youngest members of the family, usually clinging to their mothers and relying on them for nourishment and protection. The specific number of members in this family may vary over time because of deaths, births and migration, but while it may be difficult to count, the family usually comprises around 10 to 15 members. 

Lead Silverback.

The lead silverback is the primary male leader of a gorilla family. This silverback holds the highest social rank within the group and plays a crucial role in maintaining order, protecting the family and making important decisions. 

It’s typically the oldest and largest male in the family, he has acquired his position through years of physical prowess, maturity and successful challenges to other males. His physical characteristics such as the silver-colored back, give him his distinct name. 

He plays the role of protecting and defending the family against potential threats, rival silverbacks, predators or human encroachments.

He also protects the family’s territory by marking boundaries through vocalizing, chest-beating and displaying other dominant behaviours to discourage intruders from entering their territory. 

The male silverback is also responsible for maintaining social order within the family, mediating conflicts between members and ensuing peaceful co-existence. 

Trekking Busingye gorilla family.

Trekking the Busingye gorilla family is a thrilling and unforgettable experience that allows you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. 

Before starting, you will attend a briefing conducted by experienced guides, they will provide important information about the gorillas, safety guidelines and what to expect during the trek. 

The trekking experience begins as you venture into the dense and lush jungle of Bwindi, the trek can vary in duration ranging from a couple of 2 or 3 hours depending on the location of the Busingye family on that day.

Throughout the trek, you will be accompanied by experienced guides and trackers who are familiar with the gorilla’s whereabouts. They will lead you through the terrain, ensuring your safety and providing valuable information about the gorillas and their behaviours. 

Once you encounter the gorillas, you will spend approximately one hour in their presence. This time allows you to observe their behaviour, interactions and daily activities such as feeding, playing and grooming. You will have the chance to take snaps and appreciate these incredible creatures while maintaining a safe distance.