Gorillas, an endangered species, are experiencing a rapid decline in population due to habitat loss, poaching, and viral infections.
They are particularly susceptible to various viruses, including the coronavirus, and often fall victim to illegal snares, highlighting the need for continuous conservation efforts.
Organizations such as the International Gorilla Conservation Programme are working to protect gorillas, including mountain gorillas, and public awareness remains crucial for their survival.
IUCN, Eastern Gorilla
Gorillas are often portrayed as symbols of strength in media like “King Kong”. However, gorillas are critically endangered species facing a severe risk of extinction.
Both Eastern gorillas and Western gorillas are classified as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List. The current estimated population of gorillas is around 18,000, including both Eastern and Western gorillas. Furthermore, it has been observed that the gorilla population has decreased by over 60% in the past 20 years.
IUCN, Western Gorilla
Experts attribute the endangerment of gorillas to habitat destruction, poaching, and disease. Gorillas primarily inhabit the central African region. Deforestation and agricultural expansion in these forest areas have significantly reduced their habitat. Additionally, the historical practice of hunting gorillas is also considered a contributing factor to their endangered status.
IUCN
Gorillas share another similarity with humans besides their resemblance in facial features and gestures: they are vulnerable to the threat of the coronavirus. During the 2020 global pandemic, concerns were raised about the possibility of gorillas contracting the virus that causes COVID-19. In Africa, gorilla tourism was temporarily suspended as a result. In 2021, three gorillas at a zoo in San Diego, USA, were infected with the coronavirus by a zookeeper. The virus was transmitted when the asymptomatic zookeeper interacted with the gorillas during zoo operations. Since research on treatment methods for the coronavirus has only been conducted on humans, the infected gorillas reportedly recovered naturally without receiving any specific treatment.
Besides the coronavirus, gorillas are susceptible to various other viruses. Experts believe that disease outbreaks have contributed to the decline in their population.
Mountain gorillas were considered the most endangered species among gorillas. In 2010, only 480 individuals remained. However, through the efforts of various environmental organizations, their numbers have increased to over 1,000. Nevertheless, their population remains small, necessitating ongoing attention. The Virunga Multinational Transboundary Collaboration, which conducted the mountain gorilla population survey, reported discovering and removing approximately 400 snares during the survey period. Many gorillas are reported to perish due to illegal snares set for hunting other animals.
The International Gorilla Conservation Programme (IGCP), a joint initiative of WWF and FFI, continuously monitors the mountain gorilla population, conducts genetic research, and engages in other efforts to protect these endangered species. Preventing the extinction of gorillas requires sustained attention from a wider range of environmental organizations, nations, and the general public.