Mountain gorillas are among the most awe-inspiring creatures on Earth, yet they remain one of the most endangered primates. These majestic apes, found only in the misty forests of East and Central Africa, continue to face significant threats despite conservation efforts that have helped increase their numbers.
If you’re wondering why mountain gorillas are endangered, where they live, their physical characteristics, and the challenges they face, this article will provide you with an in-depth look at these incredible creatures.
Why Are Mountain Gorillas Endangered?
Mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) have been endangered for decades due to a combination of habitat destruction, poaching, disease, and human-wildlife conflict. Although conservation efforts have led to an increase in their population, they are still vulnerable to extinction.
One of the biggest threats to mountain gorillas is deforestation and land encroachment. As human populations expand, forests are cleared for agriculture, settlement, and infrastructure development. Since mountain gorillas only live in a few protected areas, any loss of habitat significantly impacts their survival.
While mountain gorillas are not typically targeted for the wildlife trade, they often fall victim to snares set for other animals. Poachers hunting for bushmeat leave traps that unintentionally injure or kill gorillas. In the past, poachers have also killed gorillas for trophies or to sell baby gorillas illegally.
Another major threat is disease. Mountain gorillas share 98.4% of their DNA with humans, making them highly susceptible to human diseases. A common cold or respiratory infection can be fatal to gorillas since they do not have immunity to human illnesses. This is why gorilla trekking guidelines require visitors to maintain a distance of at least seven meters (21 feet).
Additionally, mountain gorillas live in regions that have experienced political instability, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Armed conflicts and militia groups in these areas pose a direct threat to gorillas, as their habitats are sometimes used as hideouts, and conservation efforts are disrupted.
Mountain Gorilla Population: How Many Are Left?
Decades of conservation work have led to a slow but steady recovery in mountain gorilla population numbers. As of recent estimates, the population of mountain gorillas is over 1,000 individuals, a significant increase from the fewer than 300 gorillas that existed in the 1980s.
Current Population Estimates:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda): Over 450 gorillas
Virunga Mountains (Rwanda, Uganda, DRC): Around 600 gorillas
Thanks to conservation programs, mountain gorillas are the only great ape species whose population is increasing, leading to their classification being changed from “critically endangered” to “endangered” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, they remain at risk and require continuous protection.
Mountain Gorilla Habitat: Where Do They Live?
Mountain gorillas are found in only two major regions in Africa:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) – A dense rainforest known for its rich biodiversity.
The Virunga Mountains (Uganda, Rwanda, DRC) – A volcanic mountain range home to gorilla populations in Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), Virunga National Park (DRC), and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda).
Unlike lowland gorillas, which live in tropical forests at lower elevations, mountain gorillas thrive in high-altitude forests between 2,200 and 4,300 meters (7,200 to 14,100 feet) above sea level. Their thick fur helps them withstand the cold temperatures found at these elevations.
Mountain Gorilla Size, Weight, and Physical Characteristics
Mountain gorillas are the largest of all primates, with males being significantly larger than females. Their bodies are adapted for strength and endurance, allowing them to climb, forage, and navigate dense forests.
Mountain Gorilla Weight:
Adult males (Silverbacks): 136–220 kg (300–485 lbs)
Adult females: 70–114 kg (154–250 lbs)
Mountain Gorilla Height:
Adult males (Standing on two legs): 1.4 to 1.8 meters (4 ft 7 in to 5 ft 11 in)
Adult females: Slightly shorter than males
Despite their immense size, mountain gorillas are gentle and highly social animals that rely on their strength primarily for protection and defense rather than aggression.
Mountain Gorilla Threats: What Puts Them at Risk?
In addition to habitat loss, poaching, and disease, mountain gorillas face several other threats:
Climate Change
Changes in weather patterns, deforestation, and human encroachment alter gorilla food sources and habitat conditions. Rising temperatures can also introduce new diseases that further threaten their survival.
Human-Wildlife Conflict
As human populations grow near gorilla habitats, farmers often expand into protected areas. This can lead to conflict when gorillas raid crops, resulting in retaliation by local communities.
Limited Genetic Diversity
Since mountain gorillas exist only in small, isolated populations, they have low genetic diversity, making them more susceptible to disease and genetic disorders. Conservationists work to protect their habitats to ensure long-term survival.