World Gorilla Day, celebrated every year on September 24th, is a day dedicated to
raising awareness about the importance of gorilla conservation and the ongoing
threats these magnificent creatures face. This day serves as a worldwide
platform to inspire action and celebrate the incredible role gorillas play in
our ecosystem and cultural heritage.
World
Gorilla Day was established in 2017, in honour of Dr. Dian Fossey’s birthday, a
renowned primatologist and conservationist who dedicated her life to studying
and protecting Mountain gorillas in Rwanda. Her pioneering work, highlighted in
the book and film “Gorillas in the Mist,” opened our eyes to the complex lives
of these remarkable animals and the challenges they face due to habitat loss,
poaching, and disease.
Gorillas were once depicted as scary beasts that only wanted
to scare and attack people. Movies like the original King Kong, struck fear
into the eyes of people around the globe. Even when people visited zoos, they
were terrified by these massive primates. Looking back now, these terrifying
animals attacking people, were most likely Silver-back gorillas putting their
lives on the lines to try and protect themselves and their families from the
hunters back in the early 1900’s. They are in fact gentle souls and very seldom
are they aggressive unless provoked or males competing for females.
The
genus Gorilla is divided into two species: the Eastern gorilla and the Western
gorilla, which are then divided into and either four subspecies. Western
Gorillas are divided into Western lowland gorilla (G. gorilla)
and Cross River gorilla (G. g. diehli), while the Easter gorillas are
divided into the Eastern lowland gorilla (G. b. graueri) and
the Mountain gorilla (G. b. beringei). The Mountain gorillas and Eastern
lowland gorillas are among the most endangered, with only a few thousand
individuals left in the wild.
All of the gorilla species and subspecies share approximately
98% of their DNA with humans. Getting the opportunity to observe these large
primates in their natural habitat, will show how human-like they are;
especially with way the family interacts with one another and the care a mother
gives her infant.
Unlike
most of the other primate species, gorillas are complete herbivores and not
omnivores. They have been recorded feeding on termites, but not to the extent
that chimpanzees will do so. Gorillas are keystone species in their habitats,
playing a vital role in seed dispersal, which contributes to the regeneration
of the forest. Their presence helps maintain the balance of ecosystems,
ensuring the survival of numerous plant and animal species, their dung serves
as fertilizer, enriching the soil and supporting forest health.
A normal day for a family of gorillas will consist of them
waking up together. Much like children, it can take some coaxing by the adults
to get some of youngsters up. They then move off from the area and start their
morning forage for breakfast. After a good feed, the group will rest again,
having morning siesta. The youngsters often take this opportunity to play and
get up to a bit of mischief. Practicing their climbing and beating their
chests, imitating the adults display. After a rest, the family sets off for
their lunch. An afternoon break is also in order and most of the adults’ rest
again, not all sleeping, but at least laying down. A last afternoon feed then
takes place before the family all comes together for some well-deserved
grooming. Gorillas build their own individual nests on the ground where they
then spend the night.
Gorillas
face numerous threats, primarily driven by human activities. Habitat
destruction due to logging, agriculture, and infrastructure development is a
significant concern. Additionally, poaching for the illegal wildlife trade, fuelled
by demand for gorilla body parts and live infants, poses a severe threat.
Diseases such as Ebola have also decimated gorilla populations.
Numerous
organizations and governments are working tirelessly to protect gorillas and
their habitats. Conservation efforts include establishing and maintaining
protected areas, employing anti-poaching patrols, community-based conservation
initiatives, and wildlife rehabilitation centers. Collaborative projects with
local communities are crucial for both gorilla conservation and improving human
livelihoods. One such organization is the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
There
have been encouraging success stories in gorilla conservation. In Rwanda, for
instance, Mountain gorilla populations have steadily increased thanks to strict
protection measures, tourism revenue, and community involvement. This is
similar to the population in Uganda, found in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
In parts of the Congo, populations are rising as well as not only gorillas, but
other wildlife are being protected. These successes demonstrate the potential
for turning the tide in gorilla conservation efforts when dedicated resources
and efforts are channelled toward their protection.
Responsible
gorilla tourism has played a significant role in funding conservation efforts.
By providing economic incentives to protect gorilla habitats and engage local
communities, tourism has become an integral part of the conservation equation.
However, careful management is essential to prevent overexposure and minimize
the impact on gorilla populations.
Despite
the progress, many challenges remain. Climate change threatens gorilla habitats
by altering the distribution of their food sources and increasing disease
risks. Poaching networks continue to evolve, making enforcement efforts more
challenging. Fortunately, security teams have clamped down on the poaching and
poachers caught face large fines and prison time. Balancing conservation goals
with the needs of local communities and sustainable development remains a
delicate task. There are some very special people involved here and for now
they seem to be on the right track.
Gorilla conservation is a global
responsibility. International collaboration, funding, and public awareness are
essential components in ensuring the long-term survival of gorilla populations.
Individuals, governments, and organizations worldwide must work together to
address the complex issues facing these magnificent creatures.
World
Gorilla Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect gorillas and
their habitats. These incredible creatures are not just a symbol of the wild
but are also essential to the health and biodiversity of their ecosystems. As
we celebrate World Gorilla Day, let us commit to supporting ongoing
conservation efforts, promoting responsible tourism, and raising awareness
about the challenges gorillas face. Together, we can ensure that future
generations have the privilege of sharing the planet with these magnificent and
gentle giants. Gorillas are a testament to the wonders of the natural world,
and their survival is now in our hands.
There a number of destinations in Africa that will allow you
the opportunity to trek mountains and forests in search for different gorilla
species. For the majestic Mountain gorillas one can visit either Rwanda or
Uganda, while you can visit Congo-Brazzaville in search of the Western lowland
gorillas.
