Why Ambam the Gorilla Has Captured the Internet’s Heart—And What Makes Him So Special
The internet is captivated by animals, from viral cat videos to stories about rescued dogs. But one animal has recently stolen the spotlight—Ambam, a silverback gorilla residing in Port Lympne Wild Animal Park in Kent, England. Silverback gorillas are not uncommon, but Ambam has become a sensation for his unique ability to walk upright like a human.
Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 476 pounds, Ambam’s human-like walking is what makes him so remarkable. It’s not just that he occasionally stands up; Ambam has mastered the art of walking on two legs for extended periods, an impressive feat that has fascinated both the public and scientists alike.
How Ambam Became a Viral Star
Ambam’s fame began when videos of him walking upright were shared online, quickly going viral and spreading across various social media platforms. People from all over the world were intrigued by the sight of a gorilla mimicking human behavior. It’s not something you see every day, and Ambam’s unusual skill has drawn millions of views, making him a beloved figure in the online animal world.
What’s particularly impressive is that Ambam wasn’t trained to walk this way. He learned by observing the zookeepers at Port Lympne, imitating their movements. Zoo scientists were amazed by his intelligence and ability to adapt to his surroundings. His two-legged stroll isn’t something that all gorillas can do, making Ambam even more unique.
Why Does Ambam Walk Upright?
So why does Ambam choose to walk like a human? Zoo experts believe it serves a practical purpose for him. Walking upright allows Ambam to carry more food or objects in his hands, giving him an advantage in gathering supplies. It also gives him a better vantage point, allowing him to see over obstacles like tall grasses in his enclosure.
While it’s not uncommon for gorillas to occasionally stand on two legs, Ambam’s skill is rare because of how frequently and comfortably he walks this way. His upright stance and calm demeanor have made him a favorite among zoo visitors and internet users alike. It’s clear that Ambam has not only mastered walking like a human but has also charmed everyone who watches him.
The Science Behind Ambam’s Behavior
Ambam’s ability to walk on two legs offers a fascinating glimpse into the intelligence of gorillas. As one of our closest genetic relatives, gorillas are capable of learning behaviors through observation, and Ambam’s upright walk is proof of that. Zoo staff believes that watching humans walk over time led him to adopt this behavior naturally.
In many ways, Ambam’s actions highlight the incredible cognitive abilities of great apes, showing that they can pick up on human behaviors in ways we don’t always expect. This has opened up conversations about the intelligence of gorillas and other primates, sparking interest in their behavior and abilities.
More Than Just a Viral Sensation
Ambam’s internet fame goes beyond just entertainment value. His story has drawn attention to the important work being done at zoos like Port Lympne to conserve and protect endangered species. Silverback gorillas are considered critically endangered, and the attention Ambam has brought to his species helps raise awareness about the challenges they face in the wild, such as habitat loss and poaching.
Port Lympne Wild Animal Park plays a crucial role in educating the public about these animals and their conservation. Ambam’s viral success has given the zoo a platform to spread awareness about the need to protect gorillas and their habitats, emphasizing that animals like Ambam deserve our respect and care.
The Power of Animal Videos
There’s no denying that animal videos have a special place in online culture, and Ambam’s viral fame is a testament to how much joy animals bring into our lives. Whether it’s for their cuteness or their human-like behaviors, animals have the power to make us smile and reflect on the natural world. Ambam’s ability to walk upright like a human has done more than entertain—it’s reminded us of the connections we share with the animal kingdom.
The internet’s love for Ambam has shown once again how animals can bring people together and create conversations about wildlife, conservation, and the amazing behaviors animals can display when given the right environment.
What’s Next for Ambam?
Ambam continues to live happily at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park with his family, delighting visitors and remaining a viral sensation. His unique ability to walk like a human has made him one of the zoo’s most popular residents, and people from around the world come to see him in action. As Ambam continues to impress with his walking skills, he serves as a symbol of the intelligence and adaptability of the animal world.
While his viral fame may have started with a video, Ambam’s story is one that highlights the importance of observing and appreciating the incredible creatures we share this planet with. Whether you visit him in person or catch him online, Ambam’s story reminds us just how fascinating and intelligent animals can be.
