The internet has long been captivated by animals. Whether it’s watching adorable cat videos, reading heartwarming stories about rescued stray dogs, or diving deep into fascinating facts about wildlife, there’s an undeniable global obsession with our furry, feathered, and even scaly friends. People can’t seem to get enough of them. This is precisely why a particular silverback gorilla has recently taken the internet by storm, leaving animal lovers and researchers alike in awe of his unique abilities.
Meet Ambam, a remarkable silverback gorilla who calls Port Lympne Wild Animal Park in Kent, England, his home. He lives there alongside his family, and while he may appear like any other gorilla at first glance, Ambam possesses an extraordinary skill that has set him apart from the rest. Unlike most of his kind, this six-foot, 34-stone primate has mastered the art of walking on two legs—just like a human. His ability to rise upright and confidently stride across his enclosure has stunned experts and delighted visitors, making him one of the most famous gorillas in the world.
Gorillas, as most people know, primarily walk on all fours using a movement called knuckle-walking. While they can stand on two legs for short periods, it is rare for them to walk bipedally for an extended time. However, Ambam has done something unexpected—he has adapted, learned, and perfected walking upright all on his own. This behavior, which is usually only observed in brief moments among gorillas, has become second nature to him. Instead of returning to his usual quadrupedal stance, Ambam confidently strolls around his enclosure, shocking onlookers with his astonishingly human-like gait.
What makes this even more remarkable is that Ambam was never trained to do this. Unlike animals that are taught tricks or conditioned through reinforcement techniques, Ambam picked up this ability simply by observing the zookeepers around him. Scientists at the zoo were amazed by his natural inclination to mimic human movement. This type of learning—imitating the actions of others—is a clear sign of intelligence, something gorillas are well known for, but Ambam has taken it to an entirely new level. By copying the movements of the humans he sees daily, he has developed a skill that is practically unheard of in the gorilla world.
Port Lympne’s caretakers first noticed Ambam’s unique talent when he was still young. Over time, it became more apparent that he was deliberately choosing to stand upright more frequently than his peers. While other gorillas occasionally rise to grab food or gain a better view of their surroundings, Ambam seemed to enjoy walking on two legs for extended periods, displaying a level of comfort and ease that was previously unseen. His ability isn’t just for show—it serves practical purposes, too. Walking upright allows him to carry food more efficiently, see over obstacles, and perhaps even establish dominance within his social group by appearing taller and more imposing.
The scientific community has taken a keen interest in Ambam’s unusual behavior. Researchers studying primate locomotion are intrigued by his actions because they offer insight into how bipedal walking might have evolved in early human ancestors. While gorillas and humans share a significant amount of genetic material, the ability to walk exclusively on two legs is one of the key distinctions that set us apart. Watching Ambam move in such a human-like manner raises intriguing questions about the development of bipedalism and the role of learning in primate behavior.
Experts believe that Ambam’s upright walking could be partially due to his physical build and environment. Some gorillas with broader, more muscular frames may find it easier to balance on two legs. Additionally, being in captivity might have contributed to his ability to refine this skill since he has fewer obstacles to navigate compared to a wild habitat, where dense vegetation and rugged terrain make quadrupedal movement more efficient. However, this doesn’t diminish the sheer impressiveness of his adaptation. Even among captive gorillas, Ambam’s talent is incredibly rare.
His viral fame has sparked discussions about primate intelligence and behavior on social media. Videos of Ambam confidently striding around his enclosure have been widely shared, with viewers expressing amazement at how eerily human he looks. Some have even jokingly speculated that he could be a person in a gorilla suit. The way he carries himself, with an air of confidence and control, makes it easy to see why people are so fascinated by him.
Beyond the curiosity and entertainment value, Ambam’s story also sheds light on the importance of conservation efforts. As incredible as he is, his species faces significant threats in the wild. Silverback gorillas, like all gorillas, are endangered due to habitat destruction, poaching, and disease. Organizations such as the Aspinall Foundation, which operates Port Lympne, work tirelessly to protect and rehabilitate these magnificent animals. Ambam’s newfound fame has provided an unexpected platform to raise awareness about the plight of gorillas in the wild. His viral success has helped spark conversations about conservation and the need to protect natural habitats for future generations of gorillas.
For the dedicated team at Port Lympne, Ambam is more than just an internet sensation—he’s a beloved member of their animal family. They continue to monitor his behavior, ensuring that he remains happy and healthy while also learning more about his unique abilities. His presence at the park serves as a reminder of how intelligent and adaptable animals can be, often in ways that surprise even the most seasoned experts.
Animal behaviorists are excited to see whether Ambam’s walking habits will influence other gorillas. Some studies suggest that primates, much like humans, learn behaviors through social observation. If Ambam’s upright walking continues to be a regular part of his routine, there is a chance that other gorillas in his group might start mimicking him over time. This could provide even more valuable insight into how learned behaviors spread within primate groups.
As the fascination with Ambam continues, visitors flock to Port Lympne with the hope of witnessing his incredible walking skills in person. For many, seeing a gorilla walk upright like a human is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—one that challenges our perceptions of animal intelligence and reminds us of the deep connections we share with the animal kingdom.
In a world where viral animal videos often come and go, Ambam’s story stands out not only because of its sheer uniqueness but because it offers something more profound—a glimpse into the intelligence, adaptability, and wonder of nature. His ability to walk on two legs is more than just an amusing quirk; it’s a testament to the remarkable capabilities of gorillas and a powerful reminder of why they deserve our admiration and protection.
Ambam has certainly left his mark, not just at Port Lympne but across the internet, captivating audiences worldwide with his remarkable talent. His story is a celebration of the unexpected wonders that animals can bring into our lives, reminding us once again why we simply can’t get enough of them.
