Save Africa's most endangered gorillas

We would like to share an update about progress made in our conservation efforts for the critically endangered Cross River gorillas. Thanks to your generous contributions, we have been able to implement vital conservation actions to protect these majestic creatures and their habitat.

One of our key initiatives involved training community-based farmers and hunters as Community Rangers in the Tofala Hill Wildlife Sanctuary forest and the Tofala-Mone forest corridor. These dedicated individuals have played a crucial role in collecting essential field data, working closely with our Great Apes Program. Their expertise and involvement have been instrumental in assessing the impacts of threats and evaluating the effectiveness of our conservation programs.

In the Tofala forest site, we introduced innovative camera traps for monitoring purposes, allowing us to capture valuable insights into the lives of the Cross River gorillas. Additionally, regular monthly bio-monitoring activities were carried out in the Tofala-Mone forest corridor. We employed a combination of recce and line transect survey methods to gather comprehensive data, including indirect signs of apes, direct observations, and human signs.

We identified a total of 8 gorilla nest sites, comprising 8 tree nests and 30 ground nests. In addition, we discovered a resting nest and dung. Alongside these findings, we documented 13 feeding signs, 8 trails, and even discovered hair on one of the nests. The nesting group sizes varied, with an average nest height ranging from 1m to 4m.

Our conservation endeavors extended beyond gorillas, as we also documented significant findings related to chimpanzees. During our surveys, we encountered chimpanzee nest sites, consisting of 67 tree nests and 21 ground nests. Moreover, we recorded 7 feeding signs, 3 dung piles, 29 trails, 2 footprints, and 17 vocalizations, providing valuable insights into the lives of these fascinating creatures.

Our surveys also revealed signs of human pressure, including 21 farmlands, 12 gunshots, 39 snares, 3 hunting huts, 24 hunting trails, and 32 discarded gun shells. It is crucial that we continue our efforts to combat these challenges and protect the remarkable biodiversity found within the Cross River gorilla habitat.

None of these achievements would have been possible without your invaluable support. Your commitment to conservation has made a significant impact in safeguarding the Cross River gorillas and their fragile ecosystem. We invite you to join us in our continued efforts to protect these incredible gorillas and promote a sustainable future for our planet. Together, we can!