Titus group is one of the 12 gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, and despite being one of the smallest, it offers a great trekking experience when visited. It was named after the dominant silverback, Titus, who originated from a humble family that was killed by poachers during Dian Fossey’s research period.
This family was among the oldest during Dian Fossey’s time at the Karisoke Research Center. Titus was born during Dian Fossey’s research on a gorilla family she studied. After Titus’ family was killed by poachers, he was left alone and was adopted by another unrelated family.
Despite initial challenges, including underdevelopment and breathing difficulties, Titus managed to overcome them all, as stated by Dian Fossey. Beetsme was the dominant silverback who chased away all male gorillas from the family, leaving Titus favored by females. At 17 years old in 1991, Titus astonished researchers by overthrowing Beetsme in a fierce battle, becoming the dominant silverback.
Most researchers left Rwanda during the 1991 Rwandan genocide, leaving the group without information. Titus remained a dominant silverback until 2007 when he faced challenges and conflicts from Kuryama, one of his sons. Eventually, Titus broke away to form his own group, resulting in conflict as members moved between different groups.
At 35 years old, Titus, the gorilla king, was found dead in his nest surrounded by family members. The doctor concluded he died of natural causes. Titus is believed to have had more offspring and was considered one of the most successful silverbacks in Rwanda.
The family now resides between Karisimbi and Bisoke volcanoes and can be tracked throughout the year, even when permits are overbooked, despite originally being intended solely for research purposes.
