How Can You Save Mountain Gorillas From Extinction
How Can You Save Mountain Gorillas From Extinction: Although it’s normal to want to form a close relationship with one of our closest relatives, this endangered species does not benefit from such close contact. Mountain gorillas are particularly vulnerable to disease transmission through human contact, with some developing illnesses as a result of their close proximity to people. Nevertheless, the species’ survival depends on tourism as well as the work of scientists and researchers.
After years of being on the verge of extinction, mountain gorillas have recently been moved from the critically endangered list to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s endangered species list (IUCN) thanks to conservation efforts. There are just two places in the world where you can observe mountain gorillas, who are native to the Albertine region and the Bwindi forest.
Four national parks—Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Virunga National Park—in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are home to mountain gorillas. Since mountain gorillas can only live in the wild and not in captivity, unlike lowland gorillas, which are found in many zoos worldwide, there were approximately 1,063 mountain gorillas in the region and around the world as of the most recent census.
The fact that up to 99 percent of human DNA is shared by mountain gorillas is among the most astounding facts about them. Mountain gorilla populations are still growing, and many newborns are being welcomed into all of the national parks. The mountain gorillas benefit from this, and there are many ways that you, as an individual, may contribute to the survival and well-being of the species.
Methods for Preserving Mountain Gorillas
Without gorilla tourism, mountain gorillas might have gone extinct. Africa’s densest human populations are found in mountain gorilla habitats. Since most of the residents of these places are farmers, land is vital to their way of life. The governments of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, however, have kept the gorillas’ volcanic habitat off-limits to cultivation in order to preserve the primates. This is primarily because the money made by tourists outweighs the value of using park property for other purposes. The cost of gorilla trekking permits is high ($400 in the DRC, $700 in Uganda, and $1500 in Rwanda), but by doing so, you are not only investing in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this fascinating animal, but you are also supporting their conservation financially.
If you dont feel well, postpone your gorilla safari.
Mountain gorillas are vulnerable to many of the same viral diseases that affect people due to their genetic similarity. Because of their long history of isolation from people, mountain gorillas are also immunologically naive to certain diseases, making them particularly susceptible to certain human illnesses. According to studies conducted by the Gorilla Doctors and other specialists, mountain gorillas have died from diseases that started in humans. The leading cause of death for mountain gorillas, after trauma, is infectious disease. Respiratory illnesses, which range from a common cold to a severe case of pneumonia, are the most common type of infection. National park officials advise anyone who is sick or has a fever to avoid trekking gorillas in order to protect them from these infections.
Keep a distance of seven meters from mountain gorillas.
The Gorilla Doctors worked with national park officials to establish the rule that one should always maintain seven meters (21 feet) or more away from the gorillas in order to reduce the risk of disease transmission and to avoid altering or disturbing the gorillas’ natural behavior. Although guests should try to back away and avoid touching the animal if at all possible, the gorillas themselves—especially the young ones—may approach visitors because they are not aware of the rules. The 7-meter rule should always be adhered to, even when gorillas venture outside the national park and enter areas owned by lodging facilities and camps for tourists.
Contribute to Organizations for Gorilla Conservation
One of the most effective ways to help mountain gorillas is to donate money to organizations that are actively fighting to rescue the species. Many organizations, such as the Gorilla Fund and the Dian Fossey Foundation, have been studying practical methods for protecting mountain gorillas for decades; most of their funding comes from donations and grants.
It’s important to research the organization you’re considering supporting to determine how well it accomplishes its goal before making a financial contribution. Answers to questions like “What strategies does the organization utilize to achieve its stated goals?” should be available. “Does the organization have any statistics or data showing the effectiveness of its tactics?”
Engage in other activities while on your trip for gorilla trekking.
The vast majority of tourists who come to gorilla national parks only trek with gorillas for a day or two before departing. However, there are other amazing natural experiences available in all of the gorilla parks. Similar to gorilla trekking, governments and local populations are encouraged to preserve mountain gorilla habitat by the money made from these activities. Climb the world’s largest lava lake atop the active Nyiragongo volcano in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Explore extinct volcanoes in Rwanda and Uganda, such the snow-capped summits of Mt. Karisimbi or the fluted peaks of Mt. Sabyinyo. In addition to visiting Dian Fossey’s grave and her research facility, How Can You Save Mountain Gorillas From Extinction, in Rwanda, there are opportunities to observe golden monkeys, another critically endangered mammal, in both Uganda and Rwanda.
Encourage neighborhood companies and community initiatives in Gorilla National Parks.
The support of the local community surrounding the parks is essential to guaranteeing the maintenance of gorilla habitat and the protection of mountain gorillas, notwithstanding the efforts of governments and conservation organizations. Locals are more inclined to want to protect mountain gorillas if they benefit from tourism, local NGO activities, and community service. Visitors can help by supporting neighborhood eateries, shops, and other establishments or by making donations to park-wide community projects. In Rwanda‘s Volcanoes National Park, for instance, visitors can pay to enter the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village, where repentant poachers serve as cultural interpreters and entertainers.
Avoid buying any decorations made from gorilla parts.
Mountain gorillas are rarely the target of poaching, but other species are frequently targeted in the national parks where gorillas live. Although larger species like buffalo or elephants are occasionally targeted, poachers often employ snares to catch small antelopes to bring home to their families for subsistence. Gorillas are often caught in snares placed for other animals by poachers.
Additionally, poachers disturb the ecosystem and increase the risk of zoonotic disease spread in the forest. Wild animal skins, bones, and ivory may be used in crafts and other tourist-oriented items, but the main objective of poaching is to obtain bush meat. Don’t purchase a product if you have any concerns about its origins. Additionally, notify the national park authorities if you witness or learn of someone selling a live wild animal.
Make reservations for a gorilla trekking safari with a reliable travel agency.
Look for a company that contributes a portion of its profits to conservation initiatives while looking for gorilla tour packages. For instance, eight-day Rwandan excursions that include a visit with the Gorilla Doctors are offered by Explore Rwanda excursions, which donates a portion of the trip expenses to the national park and nearby villages. Packages that cover permits, lodging, and transportation can be arranged directly via Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with all earnings going back into the park.
Raise awareness of gorilla conservation and gorilla trekking.
Informing friends, family, and coworkers about mountain gorillas and conservation activities is one way that everyone can support the gorillas. Keep in mind that mountain gorillas have a happy ending, even if they are in grave risk of extinction! The only great ape subspecies that is not human and whose numbers are growing is the mountain gorilla. There are currently around 800 gorillas in the world, compared to less than 250 when Dian Fossey began studying them in the middle of the 1980s. This species has a good chance of surviving if we keep working to address conservation challenges.
Observe the guidelines for gorilla trekking.
Before beginning the mountain gorilla trip, the ranger guides will instruct all hikers on the proper conduct expected in the jungle. To prevent the mountain gorillas from becoming uncomfortable with human interference, each family will be restricted to eight members. In addition, trekkers must refrain from feeding the mountain gorillas, preserve a 6-meter distance, and speak quietly. You are protecting the mountain gorillas in their natural environment by following these rules.
You can prevent the extinction of mountain gorillas by implementing all of the aforementioned strategies. If you want to schedule a gorilla tour in Rwanda, Congo, or Uganda, get in touch with us.