Mountain gorilla conservation began with the work of the famous American primatologist Dian Fossey in 1967. She dedicated her life to studying and protecting mountain gorillas, a commitment that sadly led to her death in 1985 in her cabin.
At the time of her death, there were fewer than 300 mountain gorillas left in the world.
However, her work continued, and today, there are more than 1,000 mountain gorillas alive. Many of them can be seen on tours to see gorillas.
Mountain Gorilla Conservation Methods
Veterinary medicine and education: Veterinary education programs in universities like Makerere University in Uganda and the Ruth Keesling Wildlife Health and Research Centre have played an important role. These programs help Africans learn about wildlife veterinary care and allow students to research mountain gorillas. Many graduates now work in national parks, including gorilla parks, helping in the care and conservation of mountain gorillas.
Establishing gorilla rules and regulations: Rules for gorilla trekking, such as not allowing sick tourists to visit, have been very helpful. Mountain gorillas are sensitive to diseases because they do not have strong immunity. Close contact with humans can pass on diseases and put their lives at risk. These rules have helped protect the gorillas.
Donations to mountain gorilla conservation units: Donating money to groups that protect mountain gorillas is another way to help. These donations support the work of these organizations and help pay for activities that protect gorillas.
Adding other activities in the park: Tourists can do more than just trek gorillas. Other activities in the park also help local people by encouraging tourists to buy handmade crafts and support development projects. These provide extra income for the communities.
Fighting poaching and illegal trade: Strict punishments are now given to those who poach gorillas or trade in gorilla meat. Park rangers regularly patrol the gorilla parks, and people caught poaching are arrested. This has helped reduce illegal activities.
Educating local communities: Some local people harm gorillas because they do not know how important they are. Outreach programs have been created to teach communities about gorillas and how they benefit the area. This has raised awareness and helped protect the animals.
Organizing or joining fundraising campaigns: You can help by joining or promoting fundraising campaigns. Organizing such events is another way to support efforts to save mountain gorillas.
Transboundary management: Marking and protecting the borders of gorilla national parks has helped stop people from entering and damaging gorilla habitats. This has helped keep mountain gorillas safe.
How to Help Save Mountain Gorillas – Conservation Tips & Actions
Want to save mountain gorillas? One of the ways to protect mountain gorillas is by going on a gorilla trek. When you buy a gorilla permit, part of the money goes to support local communities living near the gorilla national parks.
Many locals have stopped poaching gorillas because they now benefit from tourism.
You can help protect mountain gorillas by not trekking when you are feeling sick or have a fever. Gorillas can catch human diseases, and these illnesses can be deadly to them. It is important to keep sick people away from gorillas.
Another way to protect gorillas is by donating to trusted organizations that work to protect them. Before giving money, make sure the organization is real and not a fake group.
You can also support gorilla conservation by joining fundraising campaigns or even starting your own to raise money for protecting the gorillas.
Telling your friends and family about mountain gorillas and how they are being protected is another good way to help. The more people know, the more support the gorillas can get.
While visiting the parks, you can take part in other activities besides trekking, such as cultural visits or community tours. Buying handmade crafts and other items from local people also supports their income.
You can help protect gorillas by not buying anything made from wild animals and by reporting anyone who sells wildlife products to park authorities. This helps stop illegal trade and poaching.
Lastly, you can trek with a tour company that gives part of its income to gorilla conservation. This way, your money supports the efforts to keep gorillas safe. If you’d like to be part of that effort, check out our gorilla trekking safaris.
