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The Plight of The Mountain Gorilla |
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The Mountain Gorilla is a Critically Endangered species, with something in the region of 650 to 700 gorillas left in the world. It faces the threat of extinction due to poaching, loss of habitat, disease and war. There are increasing signs that some gorillas are being killed out of malicious intent or even as a source of food, with recent instances of machete-wielding gangs killing adults and leaving helpless babies to starve to death.
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CONSERVATION
What is being done to protect them? Conservation efforts include supporting the rangers of the national parks in which these gorillas live by providing them with the resources to send frequent patrols to destroy poachers’ weapons and equipment. Regular censuses are important, as are efforts to safeguard the habitats themselves. It is also crucial to work with the local communities and to educate them as to the benefits of preserving the protected areas and taking pride in, and responsibility for, the environment. |
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Find out more
International Gorilla Conservation Programme: http://www.mountaingorillas.org
The Gorilla Organization:
African Wildlife Foundation |
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Mountain gorillas live in the border area of Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, in two populations spread through four national parks:Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda; Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda); Volcano National Park (Rwanda) and Virunga National Park -Southern Sector (DRC). |
