The Mubare Gorilla Family holds a special place in the history of mountain gorilla conservation, as it was the first gorilla group in Uganda to undergo habituation. This remarkable family was first sighted by trackers in 1993 in the Mubare Hills, located deep within the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
At the time of its discovery, the family was led by Ruhondeza, a dominant silverback who presided over a group of around 18 gorillas. Ruhondeza’s leadership was marked by his possessive nature, as he reportedly eliminated any emerging blackbacks who might have challenged his authority, ensuring his dominance within the group. Unfortunately, Ruhondeza’s aging process and lack of a groomed successor created challenges for the family, as the once-strong group slowly began to decline.
2009 was a particularly difficult year for the Mubare family. It saw the loss of three members, including one adult female who tragically died from a skull fracture. This female left behind a 6-month-old infant, which the group tried to care for. Sadly, the infant was later found dead, unable to survive due to its dependency on maternal care.
In 2013, Ruhondeza passed away due to old age, leaving behind only four members of the group. This marked a low point for the Mubare family, as it was no longer able to defend itself and maintain its previous strength. However, the family began to rebuild when a new dominant silverback took over leadership, and additional members were introduced into the group, bringing the total number to 9 individuals.
Over the following years, the Mubare family began to grow in strength again. The group reached a peak of 18 members, but continued skirmishes with wild gorilla groups and the loss of more members resulted in a reduction in its numbers. The family eventually stabilized, and as of 2020, it consists of 12 individuals.
The Mubare Gorilla Family remains one of the most iconic and beloved groups in Uganda, cherished for being the oldest habituated family in the country. Visitors to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park often enjoy trekking to this family, as it offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of gorilla habituation and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.
Visiting the Mubare Family
Location: Buhoma
Family Size: 12 Members
Silverback: Ruhondeza (former)
Blackbacks: Kanyonyi, Muyambi
Adult Females: Kashundwe, Malaika
Infant: Kashundwe’s Baby
A trek to visit the Mubare Gorilla Family offers a unique and historical experience, as it is the first gorilla family ever habituated in Uganda. The group continues to thrive within the Buhoma region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and while it has faced many challenges over the years, it remains a resilient and fascinating family to observe. Visitors to this family will enjoy an unforgettable experience, learning about the history of the family, the challenges they’ve faced, and the ongoing conservation efforts that continue to protect these majestic gorillas.