Mountain gorillas are both the largest and one of the most endangered primate species on earth. There are less than 700 of these magnificent animals roaming the highlands of Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo in east-central Africa. These gorillas are peaceful vegetarians, living in extended family groups led by a silverback male, named for the ruff of white and gray hair that grows across the adult male's neck and back. Unfortunately, they live in some of the most densely populated countries in Africa.

Mountain gorillas are a valuable resource for the countries they inhabit. Tourists can pay substantial fees to be guided to one of the family groups that are habituated to the presence of people, where they can spend an hour watching the gorillas go about their daily routine. Even so, habitat loss and poaching continue to threaten the gorillas, but the ongoing war in DR-Congo has put almost half the entire population in extreme danger. For more information on the mountain gorilla and how to help them see the links below: (Also check our art gallery for gorilla images from Uganda and DRC.)  Thanks to Phil Sirois for the use of the gorilla photo above.

Virunga National Park Democratic Republic of Congo

International Gorilla Conservation Programme

Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project

Gorilla T-Shirts