0 an older male gorilla (= a large ape) that has white or silver hair on its back and is the dominant (= controlling) member of its group:
A silverback (alpha male) will start hooting, throwing, chest pounding, leg kicks, and sideways running when approached by another male.
If the silverback dies, these males may be able to become dominant or mate with the females.
Younger males subordinate to the silverback, known as blackbacks, may serve as backup protection.
In a single male group, when the silverback dies, the females and their offspring disperse and find a new troop.
The dominant silverback generally determines the movements of the group, leading it to appropriate feeding sites throughout the year.
When the group is attacked by humans, leopards, or other gorillas, an individual silverback will protect the group, even at the cost of his own life.
A silverback is typically more than 12 years of age, and is named for the distinctive patch of silver hair on its back, which comes with maturity.
However, while gorilla troops usually disband after the silverback dies, female eastern lowlands gorillas and their offspring have been recorded staying together until a new silverback transfers into the group.
