Saving The Western Lowland Gorilla From Extinction | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

Saving The Western Lowland Gorilla From Extinction

1726
Saving The Western Lowland Gorilla From Extinction

According to the World Wildlife Foundation, the Western Lowland Gorilla is one of the Earth's most critically endangered species. The Western Lowland Gorillas inhabits many areas in Africa, from Cameroon to the Republic of Congo. Although an exact population number is not known due to the difficulty in accessing the dense and remote rainforests in which they inhabit, scientists do know that their numbers have declined by more than 60 percent in the past 20 years, putting them on the verge of extinction.

Western Lowland Gorillas are threatened by two primary reasons: poaching and disease. The gorillas are often poached for bushmeat. Five percent of the entire Western Lowland Gorilla population in Northeast Congo is killed each year, leaving their numbers at an all-time low. Disease is another huge factor in the decline of this species. Ebola has taken the lives of many Western Lowland Gorillas; some scientists even estimating that it has killed one-third of the gorilla population, the majority being Western Lowlands. With there population left on the brink of extinction, many people and groups are doing everything they can do help save this once thriving species.

The World Wildlife Foundation is leading the way in the conservation of this amazing species. Many programs have sought to increase awareness and decrease poaching. WFF has also shown its support by contributing to Ebola research to help create a vaccine for gorillas. The World Wildlife Foundation has also made efforts for increased tourism in protected areas, making it safe for the gorillas and people, while increasing education about these magnificent animals. WWF is also helping these gorillas by increasing the amount of protected land which they can live, creating a safer living environment for them to thrive in.

In the midst of a sixth mass extinction, we must do everything we can to save and protect every species on our planet. The key to this is education. With the help of people from all around the world, we can help critically endangered species like the Western Lowland Gorillas thrive again and stop other species from getting so far gone.

You can learn more about the threats the Western Lowland Gorilla faces by visiting worldwildlife.org/species/western-lowland-gorilla.

"What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make." - Jane Goodall

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

19191
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

8109
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5920
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

5122
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments