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#gorilla conservation
hog-snot · 3 months
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reasonsforhope · 3 months
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"Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo has a lot to celebrate.
The park, which celebrated its 30th anniversary on December 31 of 2023, also shared an exciting conservation milestone: 2023 was the first year without any elephant poaching detected.
“We didn’t detect any elephants killed in the Park this year, a first for the Park since [we] began collecting data. This success comes after nearly a decade of concerted efforts to protect forest elephants from armed poaching in the Park,” Ben Evans, the Park’s management unit director, said in a press release.
Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park was developed by the government of Congo in 1993 to maintain biodiversity conservation in the region, and since 2014, has been cared for through a public-private partnership between Congo’s Ministry of Forest Economy and the Wildlife Conservation Society.
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Pictured: Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park. Photo courtesy of Scott Ramsay/Wildlife Conservation Society
Evans credits the ongoing collaboration with this milestone, as the MEF and WCS have helped address escalating threats to wildlife in the region. 
This specifically includes investments in the ranger force, which has increased training and self-defense capabilities, making the force more effective in upholding the law — and the rights of humans and animals.
“Thanks to the strengthening of our anti-poaching teams and new communication technologies, we have been able to reduce poaching considerably,” Max Mviri, a park warden for the Congolese government, said in a video for the Park’s anniversary. 
“Today, we have more than 90 eco-guards, all of whom have received extensive training and undergo refresher courses,” Mviri continued. “What makes a difference is that 90% of our eco-guards come from villages close to the Park. This gives them extra motivation, as they are protecting their forest.”
As other threats such as logging and road infrastructure development impact the area’s wildlife, the Park’s partnerships with local communities and Indigenous populations in the neighboring villages of Bomassa and Makao are increasingly vital.
“We’ve seen great changes, great progress. We’ve seen the abundance of elephants, large mammals in the village,” Gabriel Mobolambi, chief of Bomassa village, said in the same video. “And also on our side, we benefit from conservation.”
Coinciding with the Park’s anniversary is the roll-out of a tourism-focused website, aiming to generate 15% of its revenue from visitors, which contributes significantly to the local economy...
Nouabalé-Ndoki also recently became the world’s first certified Gorilla Friendly National Park, ensuring best practices are in place for all gorilla-related operations, from tourism to research.
But gorillas and elephants — of which there are over 2,000 and 3,000, respectively — aren’t the only species visitors can admire in the 4,334-square-kilometer protected area.
The Park is also home to large populations of mammals such as chimpanzees and bongos, as well as a diverse range of reptiles, birds, and insects. For the flora fans, Nouabalé-Ndoki also boasts a century-old mahogany tree, and a massive forest of large-diameter trees.
Beyond the beauty of the Park, these tourism opportunities pave the way for major developments for local communities.
“The Park has created long-term jobs, which are rare in the region, and has brought substantial benefits to neighboring communities. Tourism is also emerging as a promising avenue for economic growth,” Mobolambi, the chief of Bomassa village, said in a press release.
The Park and its partners also work to provide education, health centers, agricultural opportunities, and access to clean water, as well, helping to create a safe environment for the people who share the land with these protected animals. 
In fact, the Makao and Bomassa health centers receive up to 250 patients a month, and Nouabalé-Ndoki provides continuous access to primary education for nearly 300 students in neighboring villages. 
It is this intersectional approach that maintains a mutual respect between humans and wildlife and encourages the investment in conservation programs, which lead to successes like 2023’s poaching-free milestone...
Evans, of the Park’s management, added in the anniversary video: “Thanks to the trust that has been built up between all those involved in conservation, we know that Nouabalé-Ndoki will remain a crucial refuge for wildlife for the generations to come.”"
-via Good Good Good, February 15, 2024
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wildlifetracker · 10 months
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bignosebaby · 9 months
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Snowflake the gorilla was found in Equatorial Guinea in 1966. Orphaned by farmers that shot his mother for eating their crops, he was immediately spotted clinging to her. As the only albino gorilla ever found, he was taken in by one of the farmers and given to a local conservator. After an adjustment period where he adapted to human contact, he was sent to live at the Barcelona Zoo where he lived for the rest of his life. He fathered 21 children and 10 grandchildren, and enjoyed life with his large gorilla family until he passed away from skin cancer in 2003, a condition that albinism increases the risk factor for.
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Though the circumstances of his discovery were tragic, life in captivity was highly advantageous for Snowflake. Albinism didn’t just impact his looks, but his ability; he was visually impaired, had issues with coordination, and was more susceptible to eye and skin issues. As such, his life in the wild would have been far more difficult and his chances of thriving and reproducing would have been low. At the zoo he was able to live a full gorilla life, and was a huge draw for visitors which helped promote conservation. An animated children's movie was made based on him, he was featured on postcards, and he even made the cover of National Geographic!
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The cause of Snowflake’s albinism is an issue caused by habitat fragmentation and deforestation: inbreeding. Albinism is a recessive trait, and gorillas who are unable to leave their natal groups to found new families in new territory are confined to a smaller gene pool. Snowflake’s genome was sequenced from frozen blood samples in 2013, which revealed that his parents shared 12% of their DNA which indicates an uncle/niece relation. If there is one legacy that Snowflake should leave, it is a motivation for us to protect the forests of Africa that western lowland gorillas call home and ensure a future for gorillas in the wild.
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sitting-on-me-bum · 4 months
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Endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes national park, Rwanda, where the International Gorilla Conservation Programme is working to protect them
Photograph: FFI R5/ Steph Baker/Fauna & Flora
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adventure-in-the-wild · 3 months
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Really!
https://www.kibaleforestnationalparkug.com/
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apes-like-us · 8 months
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Gorillas share about 98% of our DNA. Their complex social behaviors, including family bonds and communication through gestures, demonstrate a remarkable connection between our species. Gorillas also play a vital role in maintaining the biodiversity of their forest habitats, acting as key seed dispersers and contributing to the health of their ecosystems.
What do you find special about these gentle giants?
Photo ©GEllis/GLOBIO 
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wowbright · 1 month
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I wish I could find a trailer for this film online but I can't. It's so good! It's unlike any other nature documentary I've watched before. Like, tears streaming down my face during multiple parts of the film because it was so moving (NOT because something horrible happened) and hit on a lot of stuff I've been thinking about forever. Absolutely recommend for anyone who is interested in primates and exploring the difficult decisions and trade-offs involved in wildlife conservation, and also the relationships between humans and other great apes. It's also a personal story about family relationships, war, diaspora, and a wildlife filmmaker's struggle to understand and shape his masculinity (which honestly I didn't relate to on a personal level but could empathize with because the film told the story so well).
In the US, you can watch it for free on Xumoplay. I *never* watch Xumoplay because I find the frequency of commercials annoying but it was worth it for this. In the UK I believe it can be watched through BBC.
(If you are interested in gorilla protection in DR Congo in general, Virunga is also very good, though difficult to watch at times. Silverback focuses on lowland gorilla habituation and Virunga is about mountain gorillas.)
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campsajasafaris · 2 months
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Discover Uganda: Wildlife Safaris & Gorilla Trekking Tours | Camp Saja Safaris
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Uganda is situated in the eastern part of Africa. It boasts a varied landscape that is truly captivating. This remarkable country provides numerous thrilling opportunities for exploration and observation. Its natural beauty is showcased through its diverse range of features. To name a few are its stunning nature reserves, captivating primates, majestic rivers, picturesque lakes, breathtaking beaches, and an abundance of wildlife.
Being a landlocked country, Uganda shares its borders with Kenya to the east, Congo to the west, Sudan to the north, and Tanzania and Rwanda to the south. The equatorial region in Uganda was gifted with lush rainforests, vast deserts, and magnificent waterfalls. Leading safari operators in Uganda collaborate with visitors, making their tours and safaris an effortless and ideal experience.
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Uganda offers incredible opportunities for game viewing and wildlife safaris. The diverse landscape supports a wide range of animals, including primates and gorillas. Tourists can expect to encounter over 75 different species of animals, including the famous Big Five (elephants, buffaloes, leopards, lions, and rhinos). Other species such as hippos and giraffes can also be found in Uganda's sanctuaries.
The country is home to several national parks, including Kedipo Valley National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Volcanoes National Park, and Murchison National Park. Murchison National Park, located in the northwest and situated on the shore of Lake Albert, is the oldest and largest park in Uganda.
Uganda safari holiday packages include Birding safaris. It offers the opportunity to spot a variety of bird species. Some notable birds include the Blue-headed Coucal, Giant and Malachite Kingfishers, Squacco Heron, Swamp Flycatcher, Sandpipers, Abyssinian Ground-Hornbill, Black-billed Barbet, Weaver Birds, Pied Kingfisher, Piapiac, Silver bird, Eastern Grey Plantain-eater, African Quail-Finch, Red-throated Bee-eater, Speckle-fronted Weaver bird, White-browed Sparrow Weaver bird, Black-headed Gonolek, Denham’s Bustard, and many more.
The Boating part of your Uganda safari holiday package takes you to the best places for sport fishing. It is a popular safari activity in Uganda. The Nile River provides excellent opportunities for fishing, especially when the water level is low and clear. Tour operators in Uganda can arrange boating safaris and fishing trips, allowing visitors to catch fish and witness the majestic giant crocodiles that inhabit the river.
The open grasslands of Uganda are a thriving ecosystem where predators and grazers coexist during the dry season. This unique encounter between different species is a sight to behold.
Uganda is renowned for its gorilla population, with approximately half of the world's gorillas residing in the country. The Gorilla safari part of your Uganda tours and safaris truly make you stunning. The chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest is a key attraction for primate enthusiasts.
Exploring the conservation areas surrounding the national parks on foot is a great way to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of Uganda. Ensure that you seize these indelible yet unforgettable moments with your camera.
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Several fascinating things are there to watch in Uganda. Leading Safari operators in Uganda are always conscious about providing the best service all the time. They are very knowledgeable about Wildlife, Birds, Trees, Uganda Society, Customs, and traditions about the country. They can lead you by offering the sights and experiencing things that some can dream of. The Tour Operators can make you feel relaxed, and amazed by the sights, sounds, smells, and greenery of nature.
Leading safari operators in Uganda like Camp Saja Safaris always try to provide tourists with new appreciation and understanding about the wildlife. This is where you can book a holiday tour with a great combination and your choice among various adventures. They help in finding suitable and convenient itineraries for the perfect destination as per the needs of the tourists and budget. They are very much conscious about the comfort of the visitors and foreign tourists. The most capable, friendly, and helpful guides at Camp Saja Safaris share their talent, experience, and understanding with clients. It will bring an awesome experience among the tourists which they take back home. They make sure that Uganda safari holiday packages are designed as per tourist’s satisfaction.
East Africa is a memorable destination that should not be missed. Camp Saja Safaris made a great contribution to their clients’ satisfaction. They are one of the leading safari operators in Uganda and offer various customized tour packages as per clients' needs! For any assistance in conquering your thoughts, and passion for nature and wildlife photography please get in touch with Camp Saja Safaris at +1 (443) 409 2106.
Content Source From: www.thelifestyle-blog.com
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afrotumble · 10 months
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Champion of the gorillas: the vet fighting to save Uganda’s great apes | Conservation | The Guardian
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Instead of parachuting in outsiders, local volunteering has been key to its success. This empowers the Bwindi people and encourages them to be stewards of their own environment. To keep the gorillas away from those bananas, Kalema-Zikusoka formed the Gorilla Guardians – local volunteers to herd gorillas back to the national park. Twenty years on, Bwindi’s 119 gorilla guardians are “a source of pride to the community,” she says.
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Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda covers 160 km2 (62 sq mi) of rainforest and encompasses five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains, namely Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga & Sabyinyo. It borders Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo & Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. It is home to the Mountain gorilla & Golden monkey, and was the base for the primatologist Dian Fossey. . . . #rwanda #volcanoesnationalpark #africa #travel #gorillas #gorilla #visitrwanda #wildlife #mountaingorillas #wildlifephotography #eastafrica #mountaingorilla #gorillatrekking #conservation #volcanoes #wanderlust #remarkablerwanda #follow #nature #rwandaupdatesofficial #temberaurwanda #endangered #rwandaupdates #rwandajeansparty #vacation #naturephotography #neverstopexploring #virunga #vulkane #travelgram @safari_2_gorilla_tours (at Volcanoes National Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpLEBftNBGW/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
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thiswildcuriosity · 1 year
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Wild About the Trimates
Unlikely researchers who were initially greeted with skepticism, Dian Fossey, Jane Goodall, and Birute Galdikas changed our understanding of gorillas, chimpanzees, and orangutans.
Photo source.
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bignosebaby · 9 months
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does cell phone production hurt all apes or just gorillas?
Columbite-tantalite (coltan) pit mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo can be highly profitable due to coltans use in portable electronic devices, but it is environmentally devastating, specifically for gorillas. This would not impact orangutans and gibbons directly as they are native to Asia, not Africa, but many species overlap in the DRC.
Here is a map of Africa that indicates the distribution of African apes. Chimpanzees have the largest distribution, and the apes with the smallest territory are mountain gorillas, cross river gorillas, and eastern lowland gorillas. Though Western lowland gorillas have the largest distribution of the gorillas, Coltan mining happens in their area as well as in the areas populated by more endangered gorilla species.
These mining practices are exploitative of every living thing that calls these areas home, including black and white colobus monkeys, drills, and humans who turn to mining either by working for the companies or selling/leasing their land to survive in the midst of devastating poverty. Coltan mining is a continuation of the resource exploitation that the Western world has inflicted on Africa throughout the entire history of its colonial occupation. Here is an interactive map of mines in Africa so you can see for yourself where they are and what minerals are extracted.
Coltan mining harms many species, but gorillas are the apes that are harmed the most and are at the greatest risk of extinction from it. Because this is the most pronounced threat to gorillas and because gorillas are such a large and attractive species, they have become the ambassador species for the cause. When you recycle your old electronics through a program such as the Calgary Zoo's Gorillas on the Line initiative you not only help gorillas, but everyone who shares the same home range as them.
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gwydionmisha · 2 years
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greenhillsecotours · 2 years
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Gorilla Trekking Rwanda - Gorilla Trekking Uganda - Gorilla Trekking Drcongo - see Gorillas in the wild - Book @Green Hills Ecotours Call/WhatsApp: +250788219495 / [email protected] #gorilla #tours #conservation #wildlifephotography #volcán #Rwanda #uganda #congo #guide #book #travel #tourisme #greenhillsecotours #volcano #trekking #vacation #peace #Nyiragongo #wildlife #life #nature (at Volcanoes Park Rwanda) https://www.instagram.com/p/CfVqGWatK8m/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
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aidanflores · 2 months
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Unveiling the Unmatched Splendor of Gorilla Safari Lodge Facilities
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Uganda, Gorilla Safari Lodge stands as a beacon of luxury and sustainability. Let's delve into the remarkable accommodation amenities that await discerning travelers seeking an extraordinary escape.
The lodge boasts an array of eco-friendly features, seamlessly blending with its natural surroundings while minimizing its ecological footprint. From solar power to water conservation initiatives, every aspect of the lodge is designed with environmental stewardship in mind.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the lodge offers unparalleled wildlife viewing platforms, providing a front-row seat to the wonders of the African wilderness. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature as you witness diverse species in their natural habitat.
Thrill-seekers will find themselves spoiled for choice with a myriad of adventure activities available, from guided nature walks to exhilarating mountain biking trails. Each experience is crafted to ignite a sense of wonder and exploration.
At the heart of the lodge's ethos lies a commitment to mountain gorilla conservation, with initiatives aimed at preserving these majestic creatures and their habitat. Guests have the opportunity to engage in conservation efforts firsthand, contributing to a sustainable future for generations to come.
Indulge in the epitome of comfort and sophistication with the lodge's luxury lodging, where every detail is meticulously curated to ensure a memorable stay. Unwind in opulent surroundings after a day of adventure, savoring the serenity of your sanctuary.
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Delve into the rich tapestry of Uganda's culture with immersive cultural experiences, from traditional dance performances to insightful interactions with local communities. These encounters offer a deeper understanding of the region's heritage and traditions.
Capture the essence of your journey with abundant photography opportunities, from vibrant sunsets to encounters with iconic wildlife. Each moment is a testament to the splendor of Uganda's natural beauty.
 Experience the epitome of luxury and sustainability at Gorilla Safari Lodge, where accommodation amenities, eco-friendly features, and thrilling adventure activities await amidst the captivating landscapes of Uganda.
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