Mary Allen
Introduction: Mountain Gorillas and Their Endangered Habitat
Mountain gorillas are one of the most endangered species in the world. These magnificent primates are found only in the rainforests of central Africa, specifically in the Virunga Mountains that straddle the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mountain gorillas are a subspecies of the eastern gorilla, and they are distinguished from their lowland relatives by their thick fur, which helps them adapt to the colder temperatures at higher altitudes. Unfortunately, the habitat of mountain gorillas is under threat due to human activities such as deforestation, poaching, and civil unrest.
Location: Where to Find Mountain Gorillas in the Wild
The Virunga Mountains are the only place in the world where mountain gorillas can be found in the wild. The range spans over 440 miles across the three countries of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Uganda, the gorillas are found in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In Rwanda, they are located in the Volcanoes National Park. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, they are found in the Virunga National Park. Each of these parks is home to several gorilla families, and visitors can book a trekking expedition to see them in their natural habitat. The trekking experience is highly regulated, and only a limited number of permits are issued each day to protect the gorillas from overexposure to humans.