Western Lowland Gorilla. As is the case with many species, humans are the primary threat to the survival of gorillas. Gorillas are widely hunted for "bush meat" and the young are collected for sale to the pet trade, a practice that is now illegal. Habitat loss also significantly jeopardizes gorilla populations. The main reasons for habitat loss are mining for charcoal and coltan (which is used in cell phones and other electronics), logging for timber and fuel wood, and agricultural expansion. Civil wars occurring in gorilla habitat are also a serious threat. Outbreaks of disease, in particular the Ebola virus are contributing factors to declining gorilla populations. Also, young gorillas are susceptible to predation by leopards. Thanks to the Toronto Zoo for the info.
But still it is sad they have to live in captivity because of mankind.
ReplyDeleteDon't know what to say but that it is not going good is evident.
ReplyDeleteVery sad than humans are endangering so many species, including themselves (ourselves) I fear/
ReplyDeleteIf humans can find a reason to screw up the world, they'll do it. And these guys are our closest relatives - we share over 95% of the same DNA but the Bonobo is closest probably evolving off of the same branch but in a slightly different direction.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great photo this is. These poor guys have got a lot of predators at their door.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful picture! It would be so sad to loose these magnificent creatures.
ReplyDeleteThe Phoenix zoo tried keeping some but they both succumbed to Valley Fever many years ago.
This guys seems to be very content in spite of the evil that has transpired around him. This is good information, thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteLowell said just what I was thinking: we have no shortage of ways to screw up the world. These are magnificent animals, and when they're gone, that's it.
ReplyDeleteThis one looks happy! At least she doesn't have to worry about a leopard having her for lunch!
ReplyDeleteA beautiful image.
ReplyDeleteHe looks quite relaxed, Andy!
ReplyDeleteSuch clarity in your photo - I like the contemplative pose.
ReplyDeleteAndy, this image is exceptional. If the zoo has a blog or other social media page, you should donate the image to them. They would love it.
ReplyDeleteYou've captured a beautiful expression on that face. I would think that gorilla bush meat would seem cannibalistic.. they're so like us.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful shot (though at first it looked so much like a human I thought it was staring into a cell phone).
ReplyDeleteI worked in environmental education 20-30 years ago. Things seemed dire then (including predictions of global warming). Sadly, it's only gotten worse.
What a CUTE model you have here.
ReplyDeleteHappy weekend!