Cross River Gorilla-Rarest Primate on Earth

Characteristics and Habitat.

The Cross river gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli) is restricted to a tiny mountainous forest strip along the Nigeria-Cameroon border. These strategic bastions are the Cross River basin, the Afi mountain, the Mbe mountain, and the Takamanda National Park. They are found on altitudes of 1,500-3,500 metres where there are thick rainforest and bamboo groves. It is possible to identify these gorillas using a darker brown-grey fur, cone-shaped heads, and reddish crest. Once they are mature, males are able to grow the common silver patch on their backs, which then causes them to be referred to as silverback.

Social Behaviour

Cross River gorillas are found in small groups of 2-20 animals headed by a powerful silverback. Groups nest in the trees and on the ground in leafy nests and prefer fruits, leaves, nuts, and lianas. Their foraging does not clash a lot with agriculture as it is with other wildlife.

Population and Threats

There are less than 300 Cross River gorillas and they form one of the most threatened primates in the world. The most significant threats are human activities- poaching of bushmeat, illegal pet trade and rapid deforestation which disconnects their habitat. Such diseases as Ebola also deter survival. Recovery is sluggish with females bearing one child every four years and young taking extended stays with their mothers.

Conservation Challenges

This subspecies cannot live in captivity and the last surviving one in a zoo has been killed in 2016. Conservation has now become solely through in-situ conservation. Sanctuaries such as Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary serve to protect habitat, do research and engage the local communities. The NGOs and governments in different countries are working together to enhance anti-poaching patrol, and create awareness by using ecotourism and documentaries.

Way Forward

The flagship species of biodiversity in West Africa is the Cross River gorilla. Their protection does not only prevent extinction, but also protects whole forest ecosystems. Their survival will still be a responsibility of continued local participation, tougher enforcement of the laws and world wide conservation efforts.