The Ruhija sector, nestled in the eastern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and as a prime location for mountain gorilla trekking. This sector is home to several habituated gorilla families, each with its unique history and social dynamics. Here’s a detailed overview of the gorilla families in the Ruhija sector:
Gorilla Families in Ruhija Sector
1. Bitukura Gorilla Family
The Bitukura family was named after the Bitukura River, where the group was first sighted. Habituated between 2007 and 2008, this family is notable for its rapid habituation process, taking just one year compared to the typical two to three years. Known for its peaceful and friendly nature, the Bitukura family comprises 13 members, including four silverbacks: Karamuzi, Rukumu, Rukara, and Ndahura, the youngest and current dominant silverback. Other members include three adult females (Ruhara, Kamuga, and Bettina), two blackbacks (Obia and Mugisha), one juvenile (Kabandize), and two infants (Mubwindi and Kadogo).
2. Kyaguriro Gorilla Family
Initially habituated in 1999 for research purposes, the Kyaguriro family is one of the oldest in the Ruhija sector. Originally led by Silverback Zeus, the group experienced leadership changes after Zeus was challenged and exiled by Rukina, who later died from a lightning strike. In 2016, the group split into two: Kyaguriro A, led by Rukara, and Kyaguriro B (also known as the Mukiza family), led by Mukiza. Kyaguriro A consists of 10 members, including one silverback, three adult females, two blackbacks, two juveniles, and two infants. Kyaguriro B also comprises 10 members, featuring one silverback, four adult females, one sub-adult, and four infants.
3. Oruzogo Gorilla Family
Named after the ‘Oruzogoto’ plant found in the area, the Oruzogo family was opened for tourism in 2011. Under the leadership of Silverback Bakwata, this group is known for its playful and energetic behavior, making it a favorite among tourists. The family initially comprised 17 members, including two blackbacks, five adult females, two sub-adults, and five infants.
4. Mukiza Gorilla Family (Kyaguriro B)
Emerging from the split of the original Kyaguriro group in 2016, the Mukiza family is led by Silverback Mukiza. This group consists of 10 members: one silverback, four adult females, one sub-adult, and four infants. The Mukiza family is known for its cohesive structure and has become a significant group for tourism in the Ruhija sector.
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