How did the Silverback Gorilla got its name?

The silverback gorilla got its name from the distinctive silver saddle-like patch of fur on the back of adult males, which is used to identify the dominant male or leader of a gorilla group. The silver patch develops as they mature, starting as a gray patch at around 12 years old and becoming more silvery with age. This silver hair is actually a result of aging and is not unique to gorillas; other primates, such as certain species of monkeys, baboons, and langurs, may also develop silvery fur as they age. The iconic silvery back is what gave rise to the name "silverback gorilla."