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Why We Need to Save The Cross Gorilla, The Most Endangered Primate in The World

Why We Need to Save The Cross Gorilla, The Most Endangered Primate in The World

With less than 300 left in the wild, the Cross River Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli) is one of the most critically endangered primates on the planet. A subspecies of gorilla, these elusive animals face numerous challenges that threaten their existence with survival heavily dependent on both local and global conservation efforts. This article explores their habitat, unique characteristics, the threats they face, the conservation efforts underway, and how readers can contribute to their survival.

#1 Habitat: A Limited and Fragmented Landscape

The Cross River Gorilla
The Cross River Gorilla. Source: YouTube: Real Wild

The Cross River Gorilla is Africa’s rarest and most endangered ape. It inhabits the rugged highlands along the Nigeria-Cameroon border, primarily residing in the dense forests that make up the Cross River Basin. This region is characterized by mountainous terrain and a mixture of habitats, including montane and lowland forests. However, their habitat is highly fragmented due to human encroachment, making it difficult for the gorillas to maintain viable populations.

#2 Unique Characteristics: Distinct Yet Endangered

Cross River Gorilla
The Cross River. Image created via Canva Pro

The Cross River Gorilla is distinguishable from other gorilla subspecies by slight morphological differences, such as smaller skulls and teeth. They are important indicators of rainforest health and biodiversity, playing a crucial role in seed dispersal and maintaining the ecological balance of their habitat. Despite their significance, these gorillas remain some of the least studied of the great apes, primarily due to their shy nature and the challenging terrain they inhabit.

#3 They Are Highly Intelligent

Cross River Gorilla
Female Cross River Gorilla with baby. Source: World Wildlife Fund

Cross River gorillas are highly intelligent, even using tools in the wild. They have been seen using sticks to cross rivers or to test water depth, showing impressive problem-solving skills and adaptability in their challenging environment. They can laugh and grieve and have rich emotional lives displaying behavior and bonding like humans.

#4 Major Threats: Survival Against the Odds

Illegal logging in Congo
Illegal logging in Congo. Image created via Canva Pro

The primary threats to the Cross River Gorilla are habitat destruction, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Deforestation due to agricultural expansion, logging, and infrastructure development has significantly reduced their living space. Poaching, though less common than in the past, still poses a significant threat, with gorillas sometimes caught in snares intended for other wildlife. Additionally, as human populations grow, there is an increase in encroachment on their habitat, leading to potential conflict and increased disease transmission.

#5 They Build Nests in Trees

Family of Cross gorillas captured on Trail cam
Family of Cross gorillas captured on Trail cam. Source: WCS Nigeria

Cross River gorillas, like other gorilla species, build new nests daily using branches, leaves, and twigs to create comfortable sleeping spots. Depending on the environment and perceived safety, they construct nests either in trees or on the ground. Tree nests are made by weaving branches and leaves to form sturdy platforms, while ground nests are built from softer vegetation like leaves and twigs. Though each gorilla typically builds its own nest, younger ones often share with their mothers for warmth and protection. Occasionally, they may reuse old nests, but it’s not common. These nests are crucial for their comfort, safety, and insulation in the cool, mountainous forests of their habitat, and the materials they use vary based on local availability.

#6 Ongoing Conservation Efforts: A Glimmer of Hope

A lone cross Gorilla in Congo forest
A lone cross Gorilla in Congo forest. Source: Britannica

Numerous conservation initiatives are underway to save the Cross River Gorilla. Organizations such as the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and local governments are working to establish and maintain protected areas. Anti-poaching patrols and regular monitoring are being conducted to safeguard gorilla populations. Community-based conservation programs aim to promote sustainable land use and provide alternative livelihoods to reduce dependence on forest resources.

#7 Why We Need to Save the Cross Gorilla

Family of Cross Gorillas
Family of Cross Gorillas. Source: WildAid

Cross River gorillas play a vital role in the health and survival of rainforests. By dispersing seeds from the trees they consume and creating gaps in the forest through their foraging and movement, they help maintain biodiversity. These gaps allow sunlight to reach the forest floor, fostering the growth of light-dependent plants. The loss of these large-bodied seed dispersers would disrupt forest ecosystems, limiting seed dispersal and significantly altering plant population dynamics. Over time, this could result in shifts in plant community structure and a decline in tree diversity, impacting the overall health of the forest.

#8 The Future of the Cross River Gorilla

Kwa falls Cross River, Nigeria
Kwa falls Cross River, Nigeria. Image created via Canva Pro

The future of the Cross River Gorilla depends on the continued commitment to conservation efforts and the successful mitigation of threats. Though still precarious, their situation has seen some improvement thanks to determined conservation strategies and protective measures. Increased habitat connectivity through reforestation and corridor creation is essential for fostering stable population growth.

#9 How Readers Can Support Their Protection

Close up of Cross River Gorilla
Close up of Cross River Gorilla. Source: Reddit: @Kabiragorillasafaris

Readers can support the Cross River Gorilla by contributing to organizations working on the ground, such as the WCS or the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Raising awareness through social media and participating in global initiatives can amplify the call for conservation. Additionally, supporting sustainable and ethical ecotourism in regions home to these gorillas can provide economic incentives for local communities to protect their natural resources.

In conclusion, while the Cross River Gorilla faces critical challenges, concerted conservation efforts and global support offer hope for its survival. Through education, collaboration, and sustainable practices, we can work towards securing a future for this remarkable and rare primate.