Being a field biologist is a lot like being a detective. Field biologists look for clues to help them learn about animals. Use the Field Guide to get to know the animals by clicking their pictures. Once you are familiar with the animals, click Animal Identification Challenge to test your rainforest detective skills.

Western Lowland Gorilla

Gorilla gorilla gorilla

Size: Up to 400 lbs. (males); up to 300 lbs (females)

Diet: Leaves, shoots, stems, fruit

Habitat: Lowland and mountain African rainforests

Range: Congo River Basin, Central Africa

Life span: Estimated 40-50 years

Social organization: Normally groups of 3-30, larger groups have 2-4 adult males (silverbacks)

Threats to survival: Habitat destruction, hunted for food

Fun facts: The world's largest primates, gorillas spend more than half of each day looking for food. Adult males can weigh as much as three humans! They are known for fierce-looking displays, but are actually quite gentle.