Are Gorillas Endangered or Threatened?

Are Gorillas Endangered or Threatened?

Many people often wonder whether mountain gorillas are endangered or threatened. The answer is clear: mountain gorillas are both endangered and threatened.

Tourists from around the world actively engage in gorilla trekking to witness these incredible primates in their natural habitats. In Africa, mountain gorillas live in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Moreover, research by primatologists has shown that the mountain gorillas in Bwindi form a distinct subspecies of the Eastern gorilla, separate from those found in other parks.

Consequently, some travelers choose to trek both subspecies across different countries to fully appreciate their beauty and the diversity of their habitats.

Globally, there are two main gorilla species: the Western gorilla and the Eastern gorilla. The Eastern gorilla includes two subspecies: the mountain gorilla (found in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo) and the Eastern lowland gorilla (found in the Democratic Republic of Congo). The Western gorilla also has two subspecies: the Western lowland gorilla and the Cross River gorilla. Among these, the mountain gorilla ranks as one of the most endangered.

Why Mountain Gorillas Are Threatened

Indeed, mountain gorillas face many threats. They are sometimes poached, yet conservationists and wildlife lovers actively work to protect them for future generations. Unfortunately, in some cultures, gorillas are hunted for food. For instance, in parts of Cameroon, cultural traditions involve consuming gorilla meat. Reports indicate that a new chief may eat the brain of a hunted gorilla, while the outgoing chief consumes its heart  a cruel practice, particularly considering that gorillas share about 98% of their DNA with humans.

Additionally, because gorillas are closely related to humans, they contract many of the same diseases. Therefore, anyone with a contagious illness cannot participate in gorilla trekking. Visitors are also required to maintain a minimum distance of seven meters and avoid littering in the forest to prevent transmitting diseases.

Impact of Human Activity

Furthermore, human population growth near gorilla habitats causes significant problems. Expanding settlements and agricultural activities around protected areas reduce gorilla habitats. As a result, gorillas sometimes enter people’s gardens in search of food, which may provoke conflicts where farmers attack or kill them. This situation occurs frequently around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where large areas of forest are cleared for farming.

Challenges of Captivity

Mountain gorillas also struggle to survive in captivity. When taken to zoos, they often experience changes in diet and environment that can lead to illness or death. In contrast, gorillas thrive in the wild, where they display natural and lively behaviors, maintain social bonds, and enjoy freedom to roam.

The Importance of Conservation

Therefore, protecting mountain gorillas is essential for ensuring their survival for future generations. Conservation not only safeguards a species but also preserves a vital part of our shared natural heritage. By protecting their habitats, enforcing anti-poaching laws, and promoting responsible tourism, humans can actively contribute to the survival of these remarkable primates.

Ultimately, mountain gorillas are more than wildlife; they symbolize the deep connection between humans and nature. Their protection demands our attention, care, and action, ensuring that future generations can witness their beauty and intelligence in the wild.

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