Gorilla Conservation

Gorillas are the largest living primates and share about 98 percent of their DNA with humans. They live in the forests of central and eastern Africa. Both species, eastern and western gorillas, are critically endangered. Conservationists are working hard to protect these gentle, intelligent animals.

Threats to Gorillas

Gorillas face many dangers. Poaching, even though illegal, still occurs. Logging and mining destroy their forest homes. Diseases like Ebola have killed large numbers of gorillas. Civil wars in parts of Africa have also made it harder to protect them. Mountain gorillas live in only a small area of forested mountains.

Hope for Gorillas

Mountain gorillas are one of the few great ape species whose numbers are growing. There are now more than 1,000 mountain gorillas in the wild. Eco-tourism, where visitors pay to see gorillas in the wild, brings money to local communities. Veterinarians even treat sick gorillas in the forest to help keep them healthy.

Fun Facts

• Male gorillas are called silverbacks because of the silver-colored hair on their backs.
• Gorillas share about 98 percent of their DNA with humans.
• Gorillas build a new sleeping nest out of leaves and branches every single night.

Did You Know?

The famous scientist Dian Fossey spent 18 years living with mountain gorillas in Rwanda, and her work helped save them from extinction!