How do Western gorillas' hair coloration generally contrast with Eastern gorillas?
Answer
Significantly lighter-colored hair
A key physical distinction cited between the Western Gorilla species (*Gorilla gorilla*) and its eastern counterparts (*Gorilla beringei*) lies in their hair coloration. Western gorillas are generally characterized by having significantly lighter-colored hair compared to the Eastern Gorillas. While Western Lowland Gorilla males also develop the characteristic silver saddle upon maturation, their baseline coat color, often described as brownish-gray or black with a brownish forehead, contrasts with the typically darker appearance of the Eastern species. This physical trait reinforces their separate standing in the taxonomy.
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