|
The western gorilla is a critically endangered primate with a high risk of extinction according to IUCN (2019). Our field staff discovered recently a new family of endangered gorillas deep in the rainforest of the Kouilou Region, Republic of Congo. However, this family is at great risk from illegal logging and poaching. Our project patrols forest and monitors this rare wild group of gorillas against illegal poachers. Our goal is zero gorillas killed and to have their forest declared as protected area with effective patrols.
The discovered group of gorillas is not habituated to the presence of humans and will remain unhabituated for their own safety. Each day, ESI locates this gorilla group following it one day’s distance, using nest sites, food remains, footprints and other methods to detect their presence, numbers, travel paths, diets and other important information. At the meantime, we patrol specific sectors of the gorilla habitat to seek and guard against illegal activities in the forest, especially poacher activity, such as snares set to entrap animals and illegal logging. The snares are intended for chimpanzees, mandrills, and small game animals, but they can cause serious injury or death to wild gorillas as well. We also meet frequently with local chief villages to gather signs of unusual activities that could lead to illegal parching of gorillas.
Photo on the left: ESI camera trap capturing a undiscovered group of gorillas in Southern Congo.
Photo on the right: ESI team installing camera traps to search and protect endangered gorillas in Congo.
The involvement of local communities, including nearby villages, schools, governmental authorities and traditional landowners is a vital part of our field conservation work for gorillas. All of our field staff are hired from local communities and provided with adequate training and educational opportunities. We also provide educational programs for local universities, schools and communities. We also foster various successful livelihood programs for local communities such as organic farming and wildlife tourism. This multifaceted conservation model helps people and gorillas thrive together.
Photo on the left: A wild gorilla with her infant. Photo on the right: ESI team in Congo.
Endangered Species International is now one of the most effective conservation group, been deeply rooted in Congo since 2008. People like you who care are the heart and light of Endangered Species International. Without you, none of our achievements and gorilla conservation project would be possible. Be part of the solution and join us. We need you more than ever before.
Related links
|
