At Port Lympne Wild Animal Park in Kent, England, lived a remarkable silverback gorilla named Ambam. Unlike most gorillas which move around on all fours, using their knuckles to support their weight Ambam frequently walked upright on his two hind legs, mimicking a human stride.
Visitors and zookeepers alike were astonished by this unusual behavior. Even among primates, sustained bipedal walking is rare; Ambam’s balance, posture, and confidence made him stand out as extraordinary.
Why Did Ambam Walk Upright?
According to the keepers, Ambam’s upright stance offered practical advantages: he could better see over obstacles in his enclosure, carry more food with both hands, and keep his hands dry during wet conditions something especially handy for holding food.
Interestingly, this wasn’t a behavior taught to him. It appears to have been an instinctive or learned decision some think he may have picked it up from observing humans, or perhaps from his father, who reportedly walked upright when carrying food.
The Fame and Why People Couldn’t Look Away
In early 2011, a short video showing Ambam walking upright went viral online. Within days, it captivated people worldwide. What struck many was how “human-like” his movement appeared — a powerful reminder of how closely related we are to these great apes.
The footage didn’t just entertain. For many, it sparked wonder, sparked conversation about animal intelligence, adaptability, and even the evolutionary origins of walking on two legs.
What Ambam’s Story Teaches Us
- Even creatures we consider “wild” can display surprising adaptability and intelligence.
- Behaviors familiar to humans like upright walking may not be uniquely human, but shared across species under certain conditions.
- Observing animals like Ambam invites respect, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for our links with other living beings.
Ambam’s upright walk wasn’t a trick or a stunt, it was a genuine, natural behavior that revealed something profound: the boundaries between “animal” and “human-like” aren’t always as clear as we assume.
