If you’ve ever visited the Humba group, you can understand why the group’s namesake is a favorite among rangers and tourists. Silver back Humba is as mellow and welcoming as they come — a genuine good guy. On top of that, he has endured challenge after challenge to his leadership, but always seems to hang onto a modicum of control. In a world where might most often makes right, Humba has defied the odds time and time again. A few years ago, a larger silver back named Nyakamwe was the main challenger to his dominance. At one point, it looked as though Humba’s reign was completely over, but Nyakamwe was only able to split the group. Although Nyamkamwe took 10 individuals with him, six members refused to leave Humba, most notably adult females Kanyalire and Bonane. Both have since had babies with Humba and a young female from the Munyaga group named Kakule has also chosen to be with Humba. If Nyakamwe consistently got the better of Humba in their battles, why then didn’t all the females go with him? Based on the observations of rangers and Gorilla Doctors Eddy Kambale and Martin Kabuyaya, the answer may be simple: the females appreciate more than just strength.

During a routine heath check a few weeks ago, there was evidence of renewed struggles for dominance. Now the challenge is coming from a noticeably stronger silver back named Mahindure. While Mahindure had a small cut on his head, Humba was observed with a deep wound on the side of his face, cuts on his arm, and a thumbnail that had been almost completely ripped out. We’re happy to report that despite the severity of his wounds, Humba is healing nicely. And because some of us can’t help but pick favorite silver backs, we’re equally happy to report that Humba still enjoys the affection of the females in the group.

Baby Nzabonimpa: Humba and Kanyalire’s latest offspring

Silver back Mahindure’s time will come, but there are still lessons to be learned from Humba.