Year of the Gorilla
To celebrate Gorillas and help raise funds, WildlifeDirect brings you day to day news about gorillas in collaboration with the following partners below.
All funds raised on this blog will benefit gorilla conservation projects - check out the sidebar to identify specific projects.
Mountain Gorilla News- Villa-in of the week? - Irish Times
- Uganda Wildlife Authority habituation of new gorilla group - eTurboNews
- Boulder man sparks efforts to protect endangered gorillas, protect Congo ... - Daily Camera
- Spelman talks about her new book - Redding Pilot
- Volcanoes Safaris Offers a Free Mountain Gorilla Permit for Select 2010 Safaris - Adventure Travel Media Source (press release)
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Feb 9th Jesse W USD 20.00
324 Comments
Freaky! I have a friend who uses this same template for her Wordpress blog, so for a minute I didn’t know where I was.
s.
I can’t wait to see the new page. Of course, I imgaine you will be using a picture or pictures of the beautiful mountain gorillas on the page. My favorite picture is the close up face shot of Bonane of the Kabrizi family. He’s got the most gorgeous face and those eyes seem so gentle. I hope he is alive and well somewhere safe. Lisa
Wow, I just got off working all night…this is a little, eh different? Sheryl, I can forgive you for being a little confused! Diddy and Innocent, Lisa’s suggestion is good, but just go with your instincts…I’m sure it’s going to be beautiful whatever you decide. What would you guys do if we all turned up there, offering our help!
I really like this format and I love what they did with the Mara Triangle blog. Great colors.
Great thanks!
I’m anxious because I’ve not news since avril 5 in you blog… I sincerely hope a good information. I wich you all my friendship…
THANK YOU! FOR HELPING TO SAVE ANIMALS.
NANCY ANDRESEN
COLORADO, USA
Hello i just thought i would comment on this site it is awesome i love monkeys and gorillas i have now for over 10 years and i am now 36 years old silver back is my favorite if you have any other ifo email me.
Great work guys I hope for TONS of photos of these magnificent animals. God bless.
Hello, I visited Virunga and your fabulous Gorillas in August, 2007. I made a small donation today – I hope it helps. How is the work coming along? – we get little news of your plight here in Australia.
I hope Joseph (our guide on the day) is well, and everyone else we met there.
Good Luck!
It looks absolutely FANTASTIC!!!!! Now we can read even more stories from the field, gorillas and rangers. It is soooo clean and clear and easy to navigate, wow guy, well done!!!!!!!!
Hey there…I am just wondering…if we were already making a
monthly doantion to this blog, does it transfer with the new website?
I didn’t realize that the donate buttons had actaully been taken off this blog…were our monthly donations getting through, or were
they stopped?
Dear Christine – your monthly donation through this site will continue to go through WildlifeDirect and will continue to reach the Rangers on the ground. So no problem there at all. The idea of the new site is to provide a wealth of new information (as you can see) on Virunga and to allow people to participate more. Very good question however and thank you for that – I shall make sure this is clear.
And Christine that was me, Samantha, by the way who left that last comment!
CONGRATULATIONS! Gorilla.cd is very attractive, easy to navigate and informative! I had a wonderful time reading the team’s profiles: so many fascinating stories… Great videos and photos! The Virunga team has my respect, admiration and affection. Good luck with your new venture and bon courage in these difficult political times.
Iris
Hi Sam!!! The web site really does look terrific…had not had a chance to fully navigate it yet, but so far so good
You must be
so pleased! And thanks for the quick response to my question,
one less paypal change I need to deal with lol!
The new site looks great! The only thing I can’t make work is my login for My Virunga. I keep getting bounced to some crazy domain name for sale page.
Love all the bios, too. Awesome.
s.
Hi Sheryl,
Sam here. First you join the site, which generates a login and password and then you hit My Virunga to login with those details. If for some reason something is not coming up try refreshing your page. In Firefox it works if you do control, shift and R. In Internet Explorer you should do Control, Alt and Delete and then close IE there and then reopen again. Let me know if you have any problems. Thanks, Sam
Fantastic new site, love the layout. One more source of
information, bravo!
Great site………..awesome work! You guys work so hard! God bless!!!!!!!
Hi guys… I just wanted to explain to those who were wondering why the historic blog content has been taken off here and moved to the new blog at http://www.gorilla.cd. Basically – in a nutshell – we imported the old blog content into http://www.gorilla.cd but hid it from Google. You cannot duplicate content on Google because Google spiders pick this up and punish both sites for it by affecting their visibility on the web. About 87% of Internet users use Google as their search engine. So – while we hid the content from Google, we were not successful in hiding the aggregate pages, which are categories, archives etc. And Google then picked up the whole lot. So we had to react quickly and take the content off this site so that http://www.gorilla.cd would not be punished and rendered invisible. We are already starting from the bottom with .cd in our url – as it is simply not known. (Congo Democratique!) So anyway – I just wanted to explain that to you all and I hope that is clear. If you have any questions please let me know. I hope you are all enjoying the new site – the intention is very much to create a global online community of people who support Virunga and the mountain gorillas. Wherever you are you can join! Very best, and see you on http://www.gorilla.cd – Samantha
Uncredible site…
Hope to be in touch with you:Dr Dieter Steklis, former Chief DFGFI.Wooii
Would you please send me your mailing adresse details again.
I’m very glad you’re keeping up the blog here on WLD. Thanks for this update and links on the situation in DRC. I haven’t given up hope that peace will someday return to Congo, but the rangers have a “long row to hoe” until that day. I plan to keep an eye on them hear and on gorilla.cd.
s.
Hi Sheryl, thanks for this. I’m back home now after a very long delay at Heathrow
We are really concerned for the safety of our friends but at the same time it’s really something that they have stayed on to look after the park despite the conflict. The new gorilla site is very sexy – I’m sure it’ll do well. It will of course abate in time – look at how Uganda and Rwanda have recovered – both countries are now really cashing in on gorilla tourism.
I am now totally confused. If WildlifeDirect has no presence in DR Congo, and no agreement with ICCN – how on earth can you take over the blog that the Rangers were writing? Those same Rangers that are in the line of fire day in and day out. I believe there is potentially fraudulent activity now that the Rangers are no longer posting – how on earth do we know these monies are going to the field? I am going to cancel my donation.
And it strikes me that this is like writing in someone else’s diary. Totally unethical. Dr Richard Leakey – your name is being sullied.
Lucia B, I can’t believe you’re serious. Are you trying to start a flame war of some kind or do you just misunderstand this entire situation? Did you read this part of Paula’s post: “… WildlifeDirect will continue to support gorilla conservation efforts by maintaining this blog and raising funds to continue support the rangers in the field.
To date we have sent over $400,000 to the Virunga National Park from funds raied on this blog which has helped significantly in keeping the rangers on the ground. Thank you all for your support.”
So, where did you get the idea that WLD has “no presence” in DRC and “no agreement” with ICCN? As for that fraudulent comment, you are completely out of line. No one is blogging here under the guise of Diddy or Innocent or Emmanuel – that’s very clear. You’ve made some wild assumptions and seem to be intentionally stirring up trouble. Stop it.
s.
Just to set the record straight and inform all readers, WildlifeDirect has partnership agreements with several field based organizations in the Congo through whom all donations have been passed. We aim to continue raising funds for the Virunga Park and mountain gorillas in general which is in desperately needed. We believe that the more awareness and support that we can generate the better. Thanks
Perhaps I am wrong Sheryl and WildlifeDirect can put me right. I had understood from a post about 2 weeks ago that WildlifeDirect is a platform for blogging – and a great one at that and I love reading all the different blogs here. But they do not have a presence in DRC or an agreement with ICCN to work in Virunga. So I just think it is a bit odd that they are raising money themselves. All the other blogs are raising money for their own work. But WildlifeDirect doesn’t actually have any of their own work in Virunga. On their own website it says they are a small team all in Kenya I think. Or do they? I am maybe wrong. But I would really like to know. I don’t want to stir up trouble. But it is unclear. Falta claridad as we say.
As Paula just posted a few minutes ago, “WildlifeDirect has partnership agreements with several field based organizations in the Congo through whom all donations have been passed. We aim to continue raising funds for the Virunga Park and mountain gorillas in general which is in desperately needed. We believe that the more awareness and support that we can generate the better.”
I mean, really.
s.
Lucia, it is quite unfortunate that you should think that this is fraud. We have discussed here at WildlifeDirect and agreed that we should continue supporting gorillas and the rangers in Congo, because whether you and I like it or not, The gorillas in Congo, and the rangers, are the ones that need most support. They are in a war zone for Mandela’s sake. If Diddy, Innocent, Samantha, Emmanuel and others can raise money through Gorilla.cd and we raise more money through this blog, then wouldn’t there be more resources to help gorillas and rangers?
The assertion that Dr Leakey’s name is being “sullied” is not very kind. WildlifeDirect’s policy is to transfer all donations to the field, less only of bank fees. That policy has not, and will not change.
Readers, we regret to inform you that Lucia B is a pseudonym for someone who is obviously trying to damage WLD’s reputation. The same IP address has been used by a person who we know and who obviously would like to appear to be a donor but in fact is not. We will not reveal this persons’ identity but we politely request that the person who calls themself ‘Lucia B’ (and other names) refrains from making such attacks which are clearly not in good faith.
Readers, we regret to inform you that Lucia B is a pseudonym for someone who is obviously trying to damage WLD’s reputation. The same IP address has been used by a person who we know and who obviously would like to appear to be a donor but in fact is not. We will not reveal this persons’ identity but we politely request that the person who calls themself ‘Lucia B’ (and other names) refrains from making such attacks which are clearly not in good faith.
Wow. Just … wow. Trolling to alienate people who care about mountain gorilla conservation for some misguided idealism or petty disagreements will only hurt the gorillas and the rangers. My apologies for feeding the troll; it won’t happen again.
s.
This is just a true shame. I’m so sorry for all that is happening. As if the Rangers on the ground don’t have enough to worry about, with getting their families out of harms way and doing the very difficult task of protecting Virunga National Park, all in a war zone, for that matter. I agree with Sheryl and Maina. This is pity garbage that has no place here. Lisa
It just goes to show how little we know about the materials in items we buy. I try hard not to buy products containing palm oil and other environmentally damaging ingredients but it seems almost EVERYTHING has ingredients that are taken from places like Congo, Indonesia and other nature-rich yet financially poor countries at the expense of wildlife, habitat and the local people.
Is there a way to find out exactly WHICH brands of phones, computers and DVD use coltan?
Great news to hear……..I still plan on buying it..such a wonderful story!
Every time the rangers arrest a charcoal-burner an angel gets its wings.
s.
That is appalling, let’s hope there is an end to all this insanity
soon.
Miza’s story is an icon. I believe that children will make a difference for these magestic creatures. Thanks.
Terrible news.. Will this ever end? One just feels totally helpless and unable to do anything which would help gorillas and rangers. There has to be a way to increase international pressure on rebel leaders.
Please keep us posted and stay safe.
This is horrible for every living creature in Virunga and beyond.
s.
A while back we had a letter-writing campaign on this exact matter and Robin Andrea wrote a sample letter. You can find it here: http://nothoney.wordpress.com/wildlife-direct-lobby/ or copy-and-paste it from here:
Dear (Representative or Senator or MP):
The Democratic Republic of Congo endures what the United Nations calls the deadliest conflict since World War II. We need to help stem the flow of blood and violence. I request that we strongly urge President Kagame and the Rwandan government to act immediately to stop any and all support of the rebel leader and war criminal Laurent Nkunda, to cut off the recruitment from its territory of individuals, including children, as fighters for Laurent Nkunda’s forces, and to comply with the UN arms embargo by ensuring that no military equipment crosses its frontier into the DRC. His whereabouts have been well known, yet nothing has been done to capture him.
Nkunda occupies part of Virunga National Park and park rangers can no longer safely patrol the park for snares, poachers, and illegal charcoal makers. Funds have been raised for his war from the illegal charcoal trade that destroys vast acres of the park’s lush forests and prime wildlife habitat. If we do not act soon, the population of rare mountain gorillas may soon vanish, charcoal looters and poachers will irreparably destroy a world treasure, Virunga National Park, and the Congolese people will bear the scars of war and famine for generations to come.
Thousands of Congolese citizens have fled from the fighting. Many of the refugees suffer from exposure, malnutrition and diseases like malaria are common. Please urge President Kagame to end any relations between his government and the rebel Laurent Nkunda. We must act now
A sad day for the people and gorillas of Virunga. There has to be a way to protect the rangers so they can protect the forest and it’s inhabitants. These rebels don’t care about the gorillas. I agree that internation pressure should put on these rebel leaders. I will pray with all my heart that the rangers, people, and gorillas of Virunga are kept safe. Our thoughts are with you all.
God protect you all – rangers, staff and beloved gorillas. Thank you for keeping us updated.
Again……..a roller coaster ride there…..one day calm and then you just never know what will happen next! I am so sorry to hear this awful news! Praying for you all!
Finally, some good news. I hope the rangers and their families can return to their homes soon. I can’t imagine how miserable it must be to live in a tent made of sticks and tarps.
s.
A small but positive step. Will the rangers and their families be able to return now? This situation is saddening and angering. Why cant people just live in peace? Sometimes I think God made his biggest mistake when he created humans.
Thank GOD!!!!!!!!! I hope everyone and all animals are ok!
Yes, finally, indeed! I know restoring the rangers’ control won’t
be easy or immediate, and that Nkunda is renowned for his
backpedaling, but these are very hopeful news. Thank you so much
for keeping us updated!
This is great news.
I was wondering how it worked between this site and gorilla.cd as they haven’t really updated on this. Do you get your news from the people on the ground there? Or do you get it through their blog like everyone else?
And I was wondering if it makes more sense to donate here to help gorilla protection, or to donate directly on their website? Where are you guys based?
Keep up the great work.
Thanks for all your comments everyone. It’s still too early to know if this is really good news, there are rebels all around the Rumangabo station and in the hills. The rangers and their families are still camped at Goma. Mark, the Gorilla.cd site is the official site for the Virunga National Park, they no longer post here but we are continuing to support the conservation efforts in Congo by bringing news from that site and other sources including sources on the ground. The more attention and funds that the situation gets the better. We are based in Nairobi as we always have been, and funds raised on this blog will continue to support gorilla conservation in the Congo. Of course it is up to you to decide where to make a donation, WildlifeDirect is a USA registered 501(c)3 charity while donations on the official Virunga site go through ACF a UK registered organization. I hope that answers your question and we look forward to hearing more from you.
How much sad. What we can say? I pray for God’s mercy to us!
Saying a prayer for all of these people who are going through so much and that you can get back to the beautiful gorillas! The world needs to know what is going on in the Congo!!!!!!!
Yes!!!!!! what an awesome idea!!!!!!!!! I will be looking forward to all the great celebrations and if I think of something wonderful I will offer my suggestions!
I wanted to say RIP Pablo..I just got my Dianne Fossey Karisoke Newsletter… and there was a tribute to him…he lived 34 long years and then went missing in July of 08 after having an altercation with another silverback!
These are magnificent animals and must be protected!!
Celebrate the Year of the Gorilla by giving them Full Protection in every possible way.
“It is totally unconscionable to subject defenseless animals to mutilation and death, just so a company can be the first to market a new shade of nail polish or a new, improved laundry detergent. It’s cruel, it’s brutal, it’s inhumane, and most people don’t want it.”
– Abigail ‘Dear Abby’ Van Buren
“Cruelty to animals is one of the most significant vices of a low and ignoble people. Wherever one notices them, they constitute a sign of ignorance and brutality which cannot be painted over even by all the evidence of wealth and luxury.”
– Alexander Von Humbolt
I became very critical of zoos and circuses and keeping animals in captivity. I wish it was against the law.
– Christopher Walken
* The animals of the world exist for their own reasons. They were not made for humans any more than black people were made for white, or women created for men.
~Alice Walker
“The Animals of the planet are in desperate peril and they are fully aware of this. No less than human beings are doing in all parts of the world, they are seeking sanctuary.”
~Alice Walker
Annie, that is so sad about Pablo. 34 years is a long time to live for a mountain gorilla. Still, it’s hard to here that one just simply disappears. I read that Pablo’s Group is the largest group of Central African mountain gorillas ever studied by the Karisoke researchers. What a testimony to his leadership skills. Lisa
To celebrate?…..Yes. But to waste in frivolous!…NO. Moreover to revise every possible way how to help the protection of this threaten specie and his habitat.
hope a better solution can be found soon after all the years of unresolved hslf-hearted efforts.
I hope everything is done to ensure the survival of the gorillas! They are so beautiful!
También tendrian que controlar que los Ruandeses y otros no se encarguen de expoliar los recursos del Congo y luego vendan el Coltán sin que nadie diga nada, sin embargo, se sabe que no hay Coltán en paises como Ruanda ¿de donde lo sacan?. Esta bien no comprar el Coltán en paises que lo extraen del modo en que se hace en el Congo, pero no me parece bien disimular….y comprarlo a los que en realidad se lo roban o “compran” al Congo, con el pretexto que no se conoce la procedencia.
Y’know it BOGGLES that there are Congolese people who support Nkunda when this is an example of how he “protects” people. If the price of his protection includes losing your home and everything you own, the extinction of the mountain gorillas and elephants, and the loss of old growth forest, then it’s too high a price to pay.
All these negotiated cease-fires and treaties mean nothing. The only thing that will bring lasting peace to the region is the end of tyrants such as Nkunda, the FDLR, and the various Mai Mai groups. They need to be permanently removed from planet Earth.
s.
hi,
would really like to know which brands use coltan extracted from congo-just saw a documentary on tg4(irish language station)on the issue-first id ever heard.It stated that nokia and motorola had issued directives to their suppliers not to import from congo which is good i guess-but wonder if it actually works out that way
more info would be great
Also, some upsetting news regarding Innocents family.
http://gorilla.cd/2008/10/24/my-family-has-been-attacked-in-their-home/
Lisa
Oh Innocent! I am so sorry to hear this news,,,saying prayers for you and your family………..will it ever end? Be careful!
What horrible news!!!!!!! I am so sorry to wake up this news today……..please everyone be safe!
Hey hate to post this on this blog..as it may not be appropriate but everyone that an please go to Siew’s blog and sign the petition to protect animals in Malaysia..there are some very disturbing pictures!
I’m stunned. This is more horrible than I ever imagined. I’ve seen the story on CNN.com and on the Washington Post and BBC News. I hope it’s getting tons of coverage.
s.
This is devastating news!! I am worried for the precious gorillas and the brave rangers who are trying to protect them!
I hope that this tragedy will get a lot of media coverage and that it will end soon!
It’s clear what Nkunda’s intentions are at this point – he stole all the ranger’s equipment and intends to use Rumangabo as one of his bases. If it’s true that he’s making a big play to take over Virunga, then he’ll have plenty of money from burning down the forest for charcoal. So much for his earlier claims about being a conservationist, eh? Not that anyone with a functioning brain believed him but with the world watching you’d think he’d try to present a more sympathetic image.
As for us here in the States, it’s time to start writing and expressing our deep concern – again – to our Congressional representatives and to the presidential candidates about the situation in Virunga. You can use congress.org as an easy-to-use portal for writing to your reps. Get busy.
s.
I will write all my representatives far and wide. Lisa
Its a very sad day and yet again this beautiful species is at serious risk.
I visited Rwanda and Uganda in 2006 and the Virungas are an enchanting location.
The Governments of the Major Powers should offer assistance and make a stand against Nkunda, before the Mountain Gorillas become extinct.
Then it will be to late.
I’m sickened. I’ve written my representatives and urged them to put pressure on Rwanda to put pressure on Nkunda. I hope this gets more media coverage.
i hope that the UN presence can now at least help a little bit. i have been thinking about this situation nonstop since i heard about it yesterday morning. i hope hope hope that these brave folks get to safety, and also that no harm comes to the gorilla families in the park.
Are thoughts are with the rangers and the inoncent people of the DRC, the situations is dire and we will pray for rangers, people, wildlife and the mountain Gorillas,
My god! I hope they end up being ok……I am so sorry this is happening again…..YES these are people risking their lives to protect the gorillas……….they do no deserve to have to worrry about a mess such as this!
This is absolutely tragic news. The UN and EU among others should have seen this coming ages ago. They have failed to act, waiting for a humanitarian crisis to escalate before even thinking about intervening. I suspect that talks will lead nowhere, as even when a peace agreement is signed it isn’t worth the paper it is written on.
Without knowing the full circumstances of the region, I recommend that rather than aim to proactively engage with the rebels, any military assistance should be used to secure strategic positions, and aim to block supply lines to the rebels, if this is possible. The goal should be rebel isolation from outside supplies. Achieving this goal would be a first step towards rebel disarmament. While the rebels enjoy freedom of movement and adequate supplies, they will hold the strategic initiative.
Only when the rebels are disarmed, will they be ready to talk and abide by peace agreements. I don’t think they will ever disarm voluntarily.
The rangers should never have been left at the mercy of heavily armed rebels wandering around Virunga park. This issue can no longer simply be settled with words and signing pieces of paper.
So sorry to hear this..my condolences to Louis’s family..I will try to donate soon! Please be careful all…..What a mess…..is the world even paying attention??????
Here is an individual who would be able to give the list of companies that uses conflict coltan. Please give him a call, he will be glad to answer any question that you might have.
Kambale Musavuli Student Coordinator 336.207.5819
also check this website out… congoweek.org it will be helpful.
It sounds like the situation is unbearable on the ground and my thanks and admiration go out to Emmanuel, Diddy, Innocent and all the rangers and park staff, who are all heros. I do want to point out that the 9 reported cases of cholera are not actually reangers, but individuals in the refugee camp set up to house the rangers’ families. Not that it is any less tragic.The conditions in the camps are dreadful. Thankfully Emmanuel was able to negotiate for supplies of clean water to be brought to the camp. Lets hope it is enough.
Thanks for the positive note here……..I really do hope and pray that these babies and everyone involved in their care will be safe!
It’s no new news that gorillas as a whole are in danger, there are only around 750 mountain gorillas left in the world and with none of these magnificent animals in captivity there threat of extinction is great. The majority of these gorillas live in the Bwindi National Forest which has fallen prey geo-political turmoil in the region (the park is surrounded by Rwanda, Uganda, and the Republic of Congo)as well as poachers.This alongside Africa’s ever growing population threaten to destroy not just the gorillas’ habitat but also the gorillas themselves. With this in mind EDUN LIVE and VBS with camera and curiosity in hand made the journey and shot the story. After all, if we can’t save the closest evolutionary ancestor we humans have, what does that say about our own future?
Watch VBS.tv trip to Bwindi National Forrest: Gorillas In The Midst
See additional stories we shot in Kampala, Uganda at http://www.edun-live.com.
This is a wonderful idea. I hope that many people can get involved so that we can all join in to help support the gorillas !
Bernadette
I am very fearful that cholera will get our wonderful gorilla’s-
I fear for the people, children and our great apes -
this is so terrible.
I am very sorry to hear about all of this. I fear for our people and our gorillas equally and am deeply remorseful over this shameful act of humankind’s.
Forgive me for asking (I am new to following this blog), but what exactly is this conflict over?
-Sonja
I am so distraught about this and feel helpless… I can’t even imagine how all the people and rangers feel……please be careful and maybe there will be some light at the end of this by some miracle…………take care!
I feel so helpless! I don’t know what to do. What can we do??? I have donated what I can but I don’t have much money. Is there anything else I can do???? My knuckles are white from praying so hard.
The problem has always been that the park is such a large area and 50 rangers was never going to be enough to defend it. All it takes is for poachers to take out a few gorillas a year and they are already on the road to extinction. It is going to require more resources and the use of technology to defend the area in the long term. But the current problem is how to end the conflict. The wounds of the 1994 massacre have not healed and this conflict will continue to build resentment between the warring factions. Why has the UN been slow to react to this crisis? I wonder also whether the new president elect will have something in his heart that tells him that a US aided intervention is sorely needed. Or will he be so focused on the war on terror and the credit crunch that African issues will have to take a back seat. If Obama cannot see that this conflict needs to be resolved, then I can’t see any other political leaders pushing for action. However, Prince Charles has been good at raising environmental issues and getting international attention, I hope he has been following this crisis and will urge an international effort. Ultimately, a high powered rapid response military strike force is going to be needed along with improved communications. But to get there we need to convince the world’s leaders and get their attention.
If they could place just a fraction of their resources that went into Iraq, we could see an end to this conflict.
Such disturbing news every day. I fear for the people and the gorillas. My heart aches for what these courageous people are going through. When will mankind learn to live with respect for others and the world around them? So deeply saddening.
I can’t begin to imagine how horrible this conflict is for all involved. These people and the gorillas desperately need a miracle.
same news? So worried……..
There have been reports on the BBC web site of daily progress in high level talks involving the Congolese government. These sound promising as they give the impression that compromise is in the air. While I think they could mark a turning point in the conflict, I am concerned that after the smoke has cleared and the humanitarian crisis is averted, Virunga park will return to being guarded by 50 rangers. This is not going to be enough to protect the park when there are so many poachers, and such a large area to protect.
And here we all sit … waiting for another Rwanda so we can finally “do something about it.” Nkunda’s a puppet, a dangerous puppet, so it’s the puppetmaster we must stop.
s.
Just checking in………when will this madness end??????
I really hope the gorillas don’t go extincted!
Paula, Thank you for keeping the Gorilla Protection blog going at Wildlife Direct. Lisa
I really hope these guys can get back in and do their jobs soon! Thanks for all you do…….
proteggiamo i gorilla e tutta la flora e la fauna del congo
Congratulations to all involved! This is indeed wonderful news! Thank you for sharing.
Yes, finally some good news here…….thanks for he update! I hope all the other gorillas are hanging in there and area somehow safe!
The UN isn’t going to protect anybody but the UN. I was a journalist in the war in the former Yugoslavia and saw the UN behave in the most cynical fashion. They are good at delivering food, providing water, and certain other practical activities. But when it comes to fighting somebody else’s war, forget it. The Congo war will end when there’s one side left standing. There ain’t nobody coming to help.
This is great news! Hope they can find all the gorilla groups. So far, so good. We’ll keep our fingers crossed.
Best Wishes, All, and yes, thanks, Paula, for keeping this blog up and running. Everyone who visits wildlifedirect needs to be kept current, especially those who may not yet be aware of the new Virunga gorilla website. The broader the audience we can reach, the more support can be sent in Virunga’s direction.
I do believe in good omens and I am keeping my fingers crossed for the twins to survive and grow. I hope someone will be able to get some pictures of this rare occurence. Looking forward to hearing more.
Me too..and will also say a prayer that those two babies make it! Good to hear about Dr. Goodall also…..man has she done some work!!!!
Dr Jane Goodall deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for her invaluable work. Thanks.
I thought she had a Nobel prize, then looked it up and I’ll be damned, Jane Goodall does not have a Nobel Prize. We should nominate her!
Oh my gosh!!!!!! So adorable! I plan to donate …
Uganda has a new set of gorilla twins in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park !!. The twins wee born to the Nkuringo group. The local people around are very excited about the twins, it is the second occurrence among the Nkuringo gorillas. the mother moves on her hind limbs as she carries the babies in her arms ! one of the twins is male while the sex of the other is yet to be confirmed. The news was reported by Monitor Newspaper of December 3,2008.
Isn’t it amazing, Paula? I know, lately, that bee numbers have been dwindling due to the colony collapse disorder in the States, and they are very important to a lot of food crops. I hope that this initiative is a success, it seems like a win-win situation.
Love the picture Diddy…….I just ordered my Miza book!Hope the babies are doing good!
The whole issue disturbs me, what’s going on must be stopped in some way, it’s depleting wild life and taking lives. And it all ties back into the war that has been going on for years and years, i wish there was some way i could get involved and help…
What a cool idea!
EU soldiers are definitely needed in DR Congo, whereas I am unconvinced that a major effort in Afghanistan is going to achieve anything other than greater resentment and commitment to fanaticism by the Taliban and their sympathiziers, which are increasing in numbers. It may be possible to subdue the Taliban temporarily but they will be back with greater resolve after all the dust settles from any major conflict. Let’s not delude ourselves that stepping up conflict in Afghanistan is going to bring desirable changes to the region. I hope Belgium will fulfil their promise of committing well equipped troops to the region, and thank goodness that at least one country has the courage and good will to commit to this important task.
Hello,
I edit a news aggregator – http://www.TrackerNews.net – that focuses on health issues, humanitarian work and the technology that serves both. “Health” is defined broadly (”One Health” “Climate Health”). TrackerNews is a project of InSTEDD, which is a small independent nfp spin-off of Google.org.
TrackerNews is unusual in that stories are not organized by topic, nor is there a standard navigation bar. Rather, stories (breaking news, research papers, blog posts, websites, book reviews, e-books – print, audio, video) are grouped together for contextual relevance.
I have included a link to Gorilla Protection on today’s “Green Bar” banner. I can send you a screen grab, just in case you miss it.
best,
J.A. Ginsburg, editor
Again, the universal plague of political corruption. Thank you for the updates, it gives yet another reason for me to re-contact local, national and UN political leaders to press for a sane, lasting agreement among all these factions. This has to stop, and soon.
Thank you so much for the good news.
Take care.
Miza found…what a wonderful gift!
This is good news. Hopefully, something can be done to help the people over there. Thanks for letting us know and can’t wait to read more on this.
It’s about damn time the world stands up and takes notice to what’s been happening in Congo. Finally, I think we’re getting some attention. If we help these people, we help Virunga and all of Congo’s wildlife to survive.
Watch the film here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXmxTJnKDM8&e
It’s very effective, IMO, especially the use of one of the best rock songs ever.
s.
Thanks for the youtube link Sheryl, it’s a good video and very powerful and hopefully it will get some coverage. I was watching football last week and saw a commercial with the coach of the Seattle SeaHawks Mike Holmgren and his family to raise money to help deliver care and medicines to those suffering in the war-torn Democratic Republic of Congo. They are asking Seahawks fan to make a donation.
Seahawks to Raise Money for Congo Relief Effort
http://www.seahawks.com/news/articles/article-2/seahawks-to-raise-money-for-congo-relief-effort/ee39d7d0-5277-43d7-9154-5c9a371191fc
I agree Sheryl..it’s about damn time! Very moving video. What is especially touching to me is that although these people have such horrible hardships many of them are still able to smile. Although the economy in the US is not good right now, we are rich compared to what the Congolese people have. I hope people find it in their hearts to donate even small amount to helping these special people have a better life. Giving when you have little is a true sign of generosity.
I had heard Ben was over doing some work…I hope he can help expose what is going on and people will pay more attention and realize it is all of OUR problem!!!!!!!!! Happy Holidays to all!
I am so sad to learn of Izan’s death. After Oyin died I really hoped the other three would survive and learn to finally enjoy their lives. This is fine example of how humankind’s interference in the lives of our wild cousins brings nothing but pain and destruction.
Rest in peace, Izan.
s.
I barely know what to say, this is so, so sad. Are there plans to check the remaining two to see if there is a similar problem that could benifit from early intervention? As awful as it is to lose Izan and Oyin, I would hate to see Baby Bala lose Abby too, especially after looking for a mamma for so long. Sad day
So sorry to hear this..I hope a cause can be found..I did receive my Looking for Miza book and it is so beautiful and sweet! I am so glad I ordered it!!!!!!!
Very interesting information..I just want the gorillas safe..like you all do…….will this ever happen?
Although it was widely reported yesterday that NKunda says he is still in control of CNDP, as of Wednesday morning, the UN cannot say for sure if he is – according to some news reports. We wait for more news. Anne, thankfully gorillas are generally found in an area that is out of the interest zone of the ‘bad guys’….they are 5,000 m above the main ‘conflict area’. The same cannot be said for animals in the lower lying hills and valleys like ele’s, hippos and other animals which occur in rebels and military strongholds or strategic points, and have been targeted for tusks and meat. Firewood too and production of charcoal which has hit the lowland forest especially hard. I hope that a stock take of the environmental impact of the conflict can be done so that future UN interventions can take this into consideration when exploring solutions
Good to know that the Year of the Gorilla is under way
In my blog written in Spanish http://www.patarosusana.wordpress.com there is an article on the Year of the Gorilla published previously (octobre 2008) by RENA Agency http://www.renanews.com.ar/columnas.html
Regards
Susana P (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
I hope these blessed creatures get the attention and protection they need! Hats off to you in ‘09!
You should cite where the line “A gorilla appears on Rwanda’s largest banknote, the pink 5,000-Franc bill, which is worth almost $10. But the apes carry an even greater responsibility on their hairy shoulders: they have effectively become national mascots.” came from: http://www.american.com/archive/2009/gorillas-in-their-midst
What suggestions do you have for a non animal blog like mine to make it a part of YOG? I have posted links like Gorilla Protection many times on my blog, but what else can you suggest?
So sorry to hear this! Again, will the madness ever end?
Hmm … So this isn’t Nkunda calling a cease-fire but the faction that attempted a coup recently? And my “joining the Congolese army” do they mean “recruit everyone in the army to our group so that we’re stronger than Nkunda and we can topple him and absorb the remaining troops thereby making us the de facto army in DRC”?
Sorry for the skepticism, but I don’t see these people just giving up their fight to join the FARDC and take orders from the government.
s.
Yea, not sure what to believe..I am an optimist though and am hoping this will end soon for the better of all animals and people involved…..2009 has got to be a better year for the Congo and the world needs to wake up to what is going on there!
This is good news from the Congo at last!
Is there anything that overseas readers of this site can do to assist with saving more of the forests of the Congo? Who can we write letters to in the Congo that would make a difference? Brenton.
I hope things will be looking up there ….the Congo needs and deserves to be saved!
Sobering news indeed :<)
At a rate like this……this will be catastrophic for the species…..I hope to God this changes!!!!!
I was awakened by a text message from a friend who was listening to NPR when she heard the news. Lots of press coverage from my scan of Google news. Not sure what to think about it but you can listen to the NPR story here: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=99790791
s.
I very much doubt the Nkunda’s arrest is going to means that things are going to suddenly improve. There is still a long way to go before lasting peace, and the UN should not assume that the region cannot move forward without intervention. Fighting could erupt again at any time, and there needs to be an infrastucture in place in order to deal with it.
Facinating news indeed…will be interested to see where these actions lead.
Paula…how have you been???? Touch base if you have a chance.
Wow……..yea let’s see where this takes everything…..I so want it to be a better world for the gorillas and all people involved!
as is everyone, i’m afraid to be overly optimistic about what the arrest will mean. but at the very least, this particular maniac can no longer wage his brutal attacks on innocent people.
to all the rangers, i just want to say thank you for your constant bravery, vigilance and dedication. even people who are far away know your stories and appreciate your sacrifices.
Save mountain gorillas!!
Please note for the record that the legal process regarding the July 2007 mountain gorilla massacre (in which 5 gorillas were killed and 1 is missing presumed dead) in Congo is ongoing and no individuals have yet been found guilty. In addition, the gorillas at Mount Tshiaberimu are not considered mountain gorillas. Thank you. Samantha
Sorry for the error on the Tshiaberimu gorillas, the correction has been made in the blog post. The correct number of deaths of mountain gorillas to disease is 7 as reported by Lucy Spelman. Twins, Shinda a silverback at Karisoke, Umurava of pneumonia and Umugisha of cancer in the Pablo group, an infant was killed by other gorillas in the Amohoro group, and Pablo is missing and presumed dead.
That is wonderful to hear, may they keep on growing and safely so.
While I am ecstatic that gorilla numbers have increased, I would feel alot better if there are better security measures in place to keep poachers at bay. I wonder what effect the fighting had in scaring away poachers, and whether they might return in more significant numbers while the hostilities have ceased for now.
I love the pictures……..I hope more positive news will continue for you guys..and the gorillas! You have all worked so hard for this cause!!!!!!!
Brilliant news, and great site!
Jason (gorilla / wildlife art)
Fantastic! Welcome Salma and the Gorilla Sound Team!
Good news! I look forward to reading the Gorilla Sound blog.
s.
Hi Paula,
I meant the small donation that I sent via this blog for Gorillasound! Thanks. Brenton.
Yes!Looking forward to learn about all the wonderful things! good luck!
This is great news. I can’t wait to read the blog and learn more about the western lowland gorilla. Thanks. Lisa
Thank you for very good news.
There is always hope. I will continue to pray for long overdue peace for the people of Congo. Let’s hope this is the beginning of the end of the conflict.
As long as there are good people out there fighting the fight, there is hope…….if we don’t believe that then what is the point of anything in this world!!!!!!
Wonderful news! Thank you for sharing.
Thanks Theresa, anything that saves more gorillas is good news. …watch this space for year of the gorilla activities
Well, it’s long past time someone advocated for environmental and wildlife conservation as well as human conservation. I would prefer to see more attention paid to saving ecosystems and wildlife because we should, instead of saving them because they benefit humans, but perhaps that day is coming?
s.
So true Sheryl…….does man not realize what he is doing to this beautiful world? Such greed and selfishness…a few good people still there though like people at WD and other conservationists!
Hooray!
The Captive Primate Safety Act passed in the House of Representatives, but it still needs to pass the Senate to become law. Last year when we were lobbying our Congressional members for passage, it was held up in the Senate by one man who was clearly in the pocket of pharmaceutical companies.
Now, Senator Barbara Boxer plans to introduce a companion bill this year along with U.S. Senator David Vitter. Reportedly, the legislation would exempt Cebus monkeys that are used to help severely disabled individuals. So, it’s not perfect but if it passes it will close a dangerous loophole in our laws.
U.S. citizens, it is time to lobby your Senators to pass the Captive Primate Safety Act. Call them, write to them, make sure they know that you support the Act.
s.
Dr. Thor Hanson also wrote an award-winning book, The Impenetrable Forest: My Gorilla Years in Uganda. By telling his own story about his time spent with the mountain gorillas and the people of Africa as Peace Corps volunteer, Thor does a great job in personalizing the message that we are all in this together. It will raise the consciousness of anyone who reads it and thinks of these hotspots as distant and removed from our own lives.
While vacationing in DC, I saw a pretty long segment on their local news on Virunga and the new baby. I was so excited to see the happy news of a new birth and the fact that a local station was airing about the park.
I love Boxer! I hope she can get this legislation done and down this year. I hope that no more animals will suffer in the future from being held as companion animals.
Vacationing somewhere as the guest of President Kagame, is my guess.
s.
Honestly when will people learn? Sad to hear of the other gorilla deaths although….Kambula lived a fairly reasonable life! I hope he was happy…
The recent chimp attack did not lead to drafting of this legislation. It was sort of sitting around being ignored until the tragedy brought the issue to the public eye. It’s a shame something bad had to happen to give the bill a push in the right direction.
Hi Paula,
Would it be possible to have a Cross River Gorilla donation listed on the ‘One-Time’ section as well? Thankyou. Brenton.
oops…yes, Will do.
Hi Paula,
I left a donation for the Cross River Gorillas. I hope that Wildlife Direct received the donation ok. Brenton.
THIS WAS CHINA’S PLAN ALL ALONG TO DEFOREST AFRICA-
THEY WILL NEVER LEARN FROM THEIR MISTAKES AND WHAT THEY HAVE
DONE TO THEMSELVES — IT JUST SICKENS ME AND THERE WILL BE NO STOPPING THEM — IT IS SO…..VERY DEPRESSING WITH EVERYTHING ELSE — AND THEY DO NOT REGARD ANY WILDLIFE OTHER THAN PANDA’S WORTHY OF SAVING MUCH LESS THE FOREST……….
Unfortunately Dra Jane Goodall is right. If we do not help, everything will be lost.
I think that everyone who reads this blog already knows that Innocent, Diddy, Paulin and all their fellow rangers are heroes. How wonderful that you are receiving the recognition you so richly deserve!
I agree..they are heroes! The awards are well deserved by these honorable, caring men who have put their lives on the line protecting the gorillas. God bless them all!
Yea! Innocent and Diddy..you guys so deserve this! Thanks for all you do and many more blessings to come!
good to hear……i hope this will educate others!
Innocent and Diddy are great heroes of humankind. Congratulations and thanks for them.
Innocent and Diddy are truly heroes. Congratulations
Can you help us stop the mass murder and imprisonment of 33,000 wild horses and burros! The Wild Horse Foundation has a plan that offers a solution, but we need your help! Please stop this trail of carnage and public waste by contacting Ken Salazar at the Bureau of Land Management at the link below:
http://capwiz.com/madeleinepickens/issues/alert/?alertid=12943361&type=AN
Please, where is the window MOUNTAIN GORILLA NEWS? Thank you.
That was actually quite funny…who knew bamboo juice was so potent…I mean these are huge animals!!! I hope the girls were hiding
Thanks Paula for the information about mobile phone recycling at Melbourne Zoo. I will spread the word around. Brenton.
Fascinating, can’t wait for the pictures and video – will try to get people to send you money so that you can upload as it happens!
Great article and pics!
For those interested, the direct link to the mobile phone recycling campaign (and the free postage paid label) is http://www.zoo.org.au/Calling_on_You spread the word if you can, it’s a great cause.
Hilarious article on the gorillas that might of been feeling a little too good! Very cute pics
This gorilla is very beatiful. Thank for recover the window on Gorilla News, thank you.
Such great ideas……will try to donate towards the project soon! Thank you for helping the world’s last remaining gorillas!
This is the best news i’ve heard in ages,after seeing the gorillas in D.R.C. in 2006 & realising how difficult everything is for them anything that can be done to protect them is a bonus.
Well, this is good news! I was beginning to think that Mashagiro would never stand trial. It’s too bad the others couldn’t be tried for the actual murders of the Rugendo family, but those are pretty stiff fines in Congo, I’m sure.
s.
It’s good to hear there has been some justice for the Rugendo family. Not as harsh a punishment as I would like but at least they got punished for their horrible crimes. I think the ICCN is sending a strong message about zero tolerance. Bravo!
This news is VERY SAD!! I love the montain Gorillas I want them to be around for my daughters to see. makes me cry!
Dian Fossey reckoned the rot went to the top of various organisations in gorilla conservation in the 1980s as detailed in Mowat’s biography of her. Twenty years on and it’s still going on, although it’s hopeful that at least some sort of conviction was made in this case.
from the beggining human been kill animals,and when this animal go in red book,peoples start to think about them.people are very cruel.and I want to say thank you to this great people,hwo try they best to save our animals!!!!!!!!!!!!!thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!If wasnt this great people,what will be with the animals?!!!!!!!!!!???????
Thanks as always for risking your lives to protect this great species! God bless!
Makes me sick every time I see this photo! I hope these criminals will pay a higher price in their next life!
Very sad indeed, if the very people that are supposed to be in charge of the welfare of our great ape cousins are the ones responsible for their deaths and loss of habitat then this unfortunately sends a message to the general public that these issues are not worth the money that is being donated.
You know you’re a success when the complaints and death threats start coming in.
I think this lady would be better served starting up her own briquette business. Why is she complaining? Why not just switch to selling what the customers want to buy? She’s not making any sense.
s.
Very well proposed Sheryl!!!!
How is he/she doing today? That poor baby looks so week in the film. I hope the trader/poacher goes to jail for a long time. Well done, all.
s.
This is a fantastic idea! I will donate soon.
how can WE protect mountain gorillas i am doing a report in school. I am almost crying how many gorillas will there be in a month? 16? 200? 2? 0?
wooooww
My heart goes out to the infant. My gratitude goes to the individuals who have taken it upon themselves to fight for those without a voice. My hope goes out to the people who commit these acts that they may find a better way to make a living that does not rely on exploitation and hurt. And my love goes out to all the animals that are struggling for survival.
I wish we were all better at the living than we seem to be at the dying.
scott
The Gorilla Doctors are doing a great job as per usual. Brenton.
Lock up the poacher and fine the buyer should be too or at least fine the person an amount that would help protect against things like this happening , since the person is described as rich make sure the amount reflects that and hurts his /her pocket.
Its surprising that a Kenyan Jiko is saving forests in Virunga while Kenyas own forests are being decimated
ya this is so funny!! i want to see a video or somthing next time!
Seeing that baby like that brought tears to my eyes….unbelievable….I cannot even imagine what that precious lil angel was thinking! Many thanks to all those involved in this dangerous endeavor! God bless you all!
Where does the 65% of world’s reserve of coltan number come from? According to the 2007 US Geological Survey, Australia contains most of the worlds tantalum – the part of the coltan used in consumer electronics – accounting for 53% of the world production. Congo accounted for 0.014%.
This is not to say that the conflict over minerals has killed millions and devastated ecosystems – those are reprehensible enough to demand action – it’s just that the suffering of the people and the loss of gorilla habitat does not need to be conflated with incorrect facts.
Here is the 2009 USGS Mineral Commodity Summary for tantalum. Look at note 10 at the bottom of the page. http://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/niobium/mcs-2009-tanta.pdf
Thanks for stopping by and sharing all the YOG travels with us. The news from Limbe Wildlife Center was heartbreaking but I do hope we learn more about gorillas so those two members of the Taiping Four haven’t died in vein.
I like the direction this blog is taking this year. Well done.
s.
Hi Iaaaaaannnnnn – finally! Hey are you coming to the YOG launch in Kenya?
i like this website
Please, comment Dr. Carole Noon’s passing away (Save the Chimps). I know that, like Dian Fossey with gorillas, “no one loved chimps more”. Thank you.
Hi Ian,
have never met you, but just seen Just viewed the Gorillas Revisited story with David Attenborough on ABC TV in Australia. Great. I was on an Encounter Overland trip that met up with Dr Sandy Harcourt from London Zoo Gorilla Foundation to see the Mountain Gorillas in Sept 1979. Our guide was Bill Weber and we visited a group in the valley next to Diane Fossey’s group. Our group male leader silverback was named “Stilgar”. Would you know of anyone who may know if he is going OK?? back in 79 there were about 250 mountain gorillas, so great to see it’s now around 380, even after all the terrible trouble in the area, Excellent to see work going on with the lowland gorillas. Apparently palm oil plantations are replacing orang-utan habitat in Borneo?
kind regards,
mark hackleton
Thanks for your blog Ian. I watched a wonderful documentary last night featuring yourself, David Attenbourough and others who filmed the Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda during the time Dian Fossey was there. It was very interesting to then learn about the history and development of the Mountain Gorilla Project which we have today. Brenton.
i lovet it so much
So sad for these beautiful creatures!
Ian, please contact me via e-mail. Thanks, Stacey
There are no words that can express the emotions I felt watching this…thank you to all of you.
there is plenty of bushmeat to eat, we need to educate them and provide benefits to them to protect the gorilla
Horrific and totally unacceptable. An armed task force should be put together and given the authority to go in hard and shut this kind of criminal activity down with extremely punishing sentences for those convicted.
Criminal profiteers do not respect the soft approach.
What a big blow to conservation efforts. I hope the culprits meet justice.
I wish I was in a predicument to help. I just finished reading “lookin for miza” WOW I have been interested in mtn gorillas since “gorillas in the mist” movie!!! I have read dian fossy,amy vedder, carl arkeley and the leakys books. I am working on the very old chaillu. Sometime in the future I DO plan to help!!!! Keep the gorillas from going extinct so I can help in the near future
What a beautiful artwork. Thanks.
Great Piece of artwork. I hope it does well in raising funds!
Dear Mr. (Dr.?) Redmond, I am almost finished reading ‘Woman in the Mists’ by Farley Mowat. It is very thought provoking. I got my BS in Wildlife Ecology and Management and began an MS in Rangeland Ecology and Management but quit it last year b/c I didn’t have the passion for the work I was doing and didn’t have much support or interest from my advisors. I am a house wife now wondering what to do with myself. Mr. Mowat doesn’t paint Dr. Fossey as someone who was always easy to work with but I wish I had something to work on that inspired in me half the passion she had for the mountain gorillas or what Dr. Jane Goodall had for her chimpanzes. My own experience in grad school was simple compared to Dr. Fossey’s but it was evident in my own college that much back stabbing and politics are employed (and standard fare) within academic departments and between very egotistical professors. Now I just wish I’d been old enough to know of Dr. Fossey and her work while she was alive and it was still ‘happening’.
I have lived in Africa and know how difficult it is to apply the law. It seems to be a great challenge and a great project. Courage!!!
MJPC blames the Congolese Government for the Deteriorating Situation in East Congo(DRC)
“There is no excuse for missing to pay salaries to soldiers in lawless eastern Congo for six months”
Following the deteriorating situation in east Congo, the MJPC called today for the Congolese Government to urgently pay the salaries to thousands of soldiers who have not been paid for over six months in eastern Congo, take swift action to enforce the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) warrant against Bosco Ntaganda and to hold accountable perpetrators of sexual violence against women for their acts.
“Failing to hold accountable individuals who commit war crimes and crimes against humunity continues to be the leading cause of widespread and systematic sexual violence acts against girls and women in the easten Congo” said Makuba Sekombo, Community Affairs Director of the Mobilization for Justice and Peace in the DR Congo (MJPC).
Mr. Sekombo again criticized the government of Congo for not only the continuing failure to protect women and young girls from sexual violence, but also for “encouraging conditions that create opportunities for sexual violence to occur”. “There is no excuse for missing to pay salaries to soldiers in the lawless eastern Congo for six months” said Sekombo. The MJPC has also renewed its call for the Congolese government to take urgent needed action to end human rights abuses in east Congo, hold perpetrators accountable and ensure reparation for the victims of sexual violence.
The MJPC has been urging the Congolese government to compensate the victims of sexual violence in order to also help combat impunity in eastern part of Congo where sexual violence against women and children has been widely used as weapon of war for more than decade. The MJPC online petition calling for help to put pressure on Congolese Government to compensate victims of sexual siolence in Eastern DRC can be signed at http://www.gopetition.com.au/online/26180.html
Really terrible. Such graceful animals butchered in such a terrible way. I hope the work done by conservation groups around the world will draw some attetion to the plight of these endangered primates.
Thanks for the update! I wish only the best for the gorillas so that they can thrive and grow. Hard to believe it has almost been 2 years since the massacre of Senkewke(spelling?) and his family! RIP sweet ones.
one more nice topic in your blog and nice comments too keep it up, by the way Graz is a very lovely city I enjoyed it so much
Great news on this project. I hope for continued success!
Ian, Please could you contact me regarding Mt Elgon Nat Park which I have very recently visited. The forest is fabulous and remains in good shape. But there is a depressing shortage of wildlife (bush meat) – ‘cave’ elephants, as you know, visit very rarely – all over at Kaberwa were you went with Kiberenge. As an ex resident of Mt Elgon I am very concerned and wonder if there is anything we can do about the state of the park and its management. Who should be contact?
Sincerely
Charles
This is a very interesting post, since I agree that the term “animal rights” can turn people off, people who may not understand what it means. Jane Goodall solved this problem for me: It’s not about animal rights, it’s about (and I may be slightly paraphrasing here) human responsibility for the world (including animals) around us. That we human animals must become as aware as possible of the ramifications of our choices and actions. I think saying animal rights puts some people on the defensive. When you switch the argument to the question of How do I affect the world around me, I think it makes for a more workable discussion.
Agree, very well put but I do believe that we, the human population in general (not all) are not quite yet ready to speak in such specific terms but we are moving towards it and one day it will happen. In meantime as was said we should focus on the educational aspect, raise awareness and conserve their habitat…. Unfortunately as long as we humans don’t grant each other these rights around the world it will be an uphill struggle to give these our closes cousins the same respect as so many of us knows they deserve..
Hi Iain, great post. I agree with apes getting human rights, I tweeted this story and so far one person also agrees!
Agree, very well put but I do believe that we, the human population in general (not all) are not quite yet ready to speak in such specific terms but we are moving towards it and one day it will happen. In meantime as was said we should focus on the educational aspect, raise awareness and conserve their habitat…. Unfortunately as long as we humans don’t grant each other these rights around the world it will be an uphill struggle to give these our closes cousins the same respect as so many of us knows they deserve..
Agree, very well put but I do believe that we, the human population in general (not all) are not quite yet ready to speak in such specific terms but we are moving towards it and one day it will happen. In meantime as was said we should focus on the educational aspect, raise awareness and conserve their habitat…. Unfortunately as long as we humans don’t grant each other these rights around the world it will be an uphill struggle to give these our closes cousins the same respect as so many of us knows they deserve…
But I should add — YES, I agree that apes should have human rights!!
But we can’t even safeguard these rights for humans. Seems a bit premature to go giving human rights to nonhuman hominids.
Would it perhaps be less controversial – and so more successful – to simply push for greater protection laws?
I watched this programme on Sunday 26th and was full of admiration for Ian Redmond,constantly having to fly in the face of adversity in a rare and most unusual debate for a SUNDAY MORNING! Also having a good (Scottish) presenter who had to keep a finely tuned balance was also absolutely essential in order to have the best overview.Another similar debate would be welcome in the near future to keep the momentum going!!
Wow…sounds like the technology is coming..I hope this works to help stop the taking of charcoal which in turn is destroying the gorillas habitat!
Thank’s for your opinion Annie,we need more fund to do more for protecting gorillas habitat.
Wonderful news! Congratulations on a job well done!
wow
I thoroughly enjoyed that! I hope these precious ones thrive and grow! God bless!
Thanks Ian and team for this. The world needs to know the facts about the state of things for the gorillas that are surviving. I for one will be waiting in anticipation for your reports and interviews.
Cant wait to hear and read of your escapades from the fields. Good luck on your journey.
Great, Brenton! I’m also really looking forward to this. Ian will have some amazing and cutting-edge things to tell, I’m sure.
I absolutely adore our great apes and other wild and pet life. I salute the work you folks do and frankly envy you.
As somebody who is a rather hapless legatee of the exquisite traditions of cow worship ie worship of the loving, the productive, the meek, I can sense how we are so so off balance.
Morally hanging upside down in our worship of destruction and dominance.
If you ask me, apes and other non human species must have ancestral rights and territories.
Of course, we have to relook our ideas of modernity.
May I welcome you and your esteemed visitors to visit and participate at:
Yet another “conspiracy in corruption”
Andhra Pradesh High Court’s Pernicious Rebellion Against The Law .05/29/09
RTI Act 2005 Abuse In Andhra Pradesh- SIC Cheats! Chief Secretary Lies!05/07/09
Prejudiced CIC Laps Up PMO Lies 05/05/09 Divakar S Natarajan and Varun Gandhi Cannot Both Be Wrong ! 01/28/09
And India’s editorial class will not report the story!
sathyagraha.blogspot.com
News and views from Divakar S Natarajan’s, “no excuses”, ultra peaceful, non partisan, individual sathyagraha against corruption and for the idea of the rule of law in India. Now in its 18th year.
Any struggle against a predatory authority is humanity’s struggle to honour the gift of life.
Thanks, I enjoyed reading your account of Ian’s visit to Kahuzi-Biega very much. Looking forward to updates and videos!
Mark
I wasn’t much interested in gorillas before I came across this site…I didn’t even know they were endangered!
Looking forward to more of your posts…great job!
Thank you Daniel and Ian for reporting and published our field work in Kahuzi-Biega national park. Your help stil be important for the survival of the lowland gorillas and the guards at KBNP.
Well this is certainly good news Luc. Let’s pray that the fines and prison sentences stick!
Yes, thank you for sharing the news..always so interesting! Good luck to you all!
What an amazing story. Thank you for this. It’s unbelievable.
Ian you are too funny. I tweeted this post and wrote “tut tut Ian Redmond must be getting desperate” – can’t wait to see the pictures of the …um, did you use the word climax…?????
Anyone who can use “slithering sex” in a wildlife blog is a hero in my book.
s.
Thanks for your encouraging comments Paula and Sheryl, but I was disappointed to see my suggestion was not taken seriously re ’slithering sex’ in the key-word tags – maybe its against UN guidelines! The serious point, of course, is that it is wonderful to know at least some gorillas are free to go about their lives – eating, playing, sleeping, and making babies… thanks to the dedicated efforts of all those involved over the past four decades. Now, I must get on with my next blog! Cheers, Ian
Another interesting post as per usual.
Great story! It should be very good for you to hear that you are realy making a difference. Keep on!
Hey, great to see the pics and yes aren’t those m/bikes comfy!!Not. Hello to Urbain and thank goodness for Santa. Good luck for the rest of the long, long journey Ian & look forward to the next episode! Take care…
Sounds like a great trip Ian, the motorcycle trips are all too familiar! Keep the news coming and stay safe, Nick.
Thanks for your posts Ian!
Ah, this report brings up memories of dusty cross-DRC motorbike/pick-up treks. Nice description of the hustle and bustle of border towns. Here’s wishing you great success on your mission.
How can we compete with a $30 million per year charcoal trade? The bad news is, it is spreading into the interior.
It was so good to see you in Entebbe, Ian. I look forward to continuing our conversation …
Hi again Ian – its Christine & Erich – the American honeymoon couple who enjoyed this trek to see Group 13 with you. We were really happy to read your summary above as it was one of the most exhilirating experiences of our lives. We were lucky to have met you on our journey. Good luck to you as ambassador and spreading the word on the plight of the mountain gorilla – we also try do our part when recounting our amazing adventures to our friends and family.
Great project to protect one of the most beautifull attractions of Uganda.
Best wishes
Dr. Arndt Embacher
(Great Safaris in Uganda: http://www.Safari-in-Uganda.com)
Hey Ian,
I enjoy reading about your time in Gabon. Send me an email the next time that you’re in Gabon and need air transport. We’re bringing in an 8 seat Cessna aircraft to Gabon, hopefully here by the end of October. We’ll be partnering with the Bongolo Hospital which is in the south of the country. The hope is to slowly start to offer the country air evacuation flights as well as doing mobile clinics to remote villages.
Keep up the good work.
My wife runs a 5 bedroom guest house in Libreville if you need a place to stay up here with wifi and A/C. We’re just up the street and around a corner or two from the WCS offices.
Take care,
Steve
Hi Ian, Great post. Any chance you can get some video footage or some guest posts from the guys you are meeting. I hope they are seeing the blog – thanks for keeping up the posting
Hi Ian,
I’m hoping to make it down to Bristol for your gorilla talks, although I’m at the other end of the county : ( I had asked the zoo to pass on my contact details as I am writing my dissertation on the gorilla and would love input from you if at all possible. It has a King Kong theme, looking at how film, literature and imagery has influenced our perception of the gorilla. If you’d be willing to offer some thoughts please get in touch!
Thanks,
Nat
Ian has been collecting video and audio interviews and other material all along. The problem was uploading and sending all these large files.
The upside is that we will have a LOT of material to follow up Ian’s trip after he returns to the UK. I’m sure there will be some real jewels among the interviews, so there’s more to look forward to!
So sorry to hear about the passing of Titus…the 35 year old silverback…I read it on the Dianne Fossey Gorilla news for September……at least he got to live a long life and seems he died peacefully and not at the hands of man! RIP Titus!
Thanks for your thoughts on the passing of Titus, Annie. I agree with you – the death of any individual who plays such an important role in his community is a sad occasion. All who knew Titus will mourn his passing in their own way – whether gorilla or human. For me it is like losing an old friend – he was the first gorilla I saw when beginning my work as Dian Fossey’s research assistant in 1976. He was then a playful two-year-old and I was a newly graduated biologist, so we both had a lot to learn. But Titus’s death from natural causes at 35 is also a triumph for conservation – how wonderful that we humans have been able to leave him the space to flourish and become the most successful silverback on record, then grow old and die surrounded by his family. The King is dead, yes, but long live the King – his son Kuryama.
Another iconic ambassador for his kind that is now gone, seems to be the year that ends an era and starts a new, hopefully all his many offspring’s will end their lives the way it is meant, by old age a sleep in their nests. RIP Titus, you leave a great legacy..
Rest in peace, Titus. You will be forever remembered as an ambassador for your species. May your children leave a mark as you did.
Un anno fa, il 24 agosto 2008, quando ci siamo incontrati, era il giorno del tuo 34° compleanno; purtroppo l’ho saputo solo ora con questa triste notizia.
Questo post te lo dedico di cuore, facendoti gli auguri che non ti feci allora, e ricordandoti, nel giorno del tuo compleanno, mentre a 3000 metri, russavi di gusto dopo l’ora del pranzo o mentre da babbo affettuoso, coi tuoi 235 kg, insegnavi ai tuoi cuccioli le buone maniere…
Ciao mitico Titus
to a gentle soul may you find your heaven Dianne will be waiting Susan Monaghan Canada
Titus introduced thousands of people to the plight of his kind. It is so sad that Titus has passed away. There is a very comprehensive report about his death and his group on The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International website.
At least he lived to a ripe age for a gorilla and was not killed by the hand’s of man! Dian would have been happy I am sure! Yes, read it on Dian Fossey Gorilla site! Great article!
You summed it up beautifully Ian! You are so lucky to do the work you do and work so close to these precious beings! Thank you!
By the way, what a handsome fellow this one is in the picture! Love it!
I meant hands!
A great lost but an old age. Rest in peace Titus.
A was lucky enough to see you once and I am not sure you were an animal..why not a kind of human being?
I am cirrently in Rwanda and visited the gorillas a week ago, check out my blog at rustystewartrwanda.wordpress.com for my gorilla pictures etc Titus’s life is as facinating as any human I know of.
Very interesting article! I really wish these people
would realize what they are doing here…sorry I hit send before finishing my sentence!
I read your stories about your trip in our respectives countries. We still have a great job to do. Do you think we can get a copy of the film the ausralian make with us at Kahuzi-Biega National Park?
See You
Radar
It looks like you have your hands full while I have been believing we are the only ones fighting such a frustrating battle here in Belize trying to save the Jaguar and its habitat.
I have been working with Sharon Matola, Belize Zoo Director, and Panthera trying to preserve the number one corridor necessary for the Jaguar migration to the Maya mountains from deforestation and commercial development.
It seems to be a losing battle for all wildlife here but we are trying as you.
Sharon Matola is the number one educator of Belezians about indigenous animals here which has made a lot of impact but still not enough to keep the greedy developers from taking and destroying everything.
I admire what you are doing there. I have a Rawandan friend who just bought some land on Lake Kivu and wants to open an eco-resort. I wish her well and hope the animals stay safe.
I will keep track of your writings for I am interested to see how people world wide are handling these environmental issues.
I myself own a jungle lodge and rescue and release all the wild life I can get my hands on in need of help.
Donna Wilson Young
You write the funniest articles. I always find something to laugh about even when the subjects are so serious. I would like to meet you someday. I’m glad you reached your sponsership goal of £1100. I’d like to see more photos of the animals.
Thank you Rusty for your very touching story about the visit of Titus and the lovely pics. Titus will stay for ever in the heart of the people and of the gorillas he lived with. May he rest in peace
Regards
Susana P (Argentina)
What a handsome one he was…I really am glad Titus got to live a rather long life! RIP!
Yay!! I just voted! GOOD LUCK JIKO STOVES!!!!
I am on a environmental site and becasue of my love for the Gorillys and your environment my focus is to bring and is bringing new fans your way. People that want to help and want to learn. Thank you guys for all you do to help me and I am sure others the information so needed for the protection of all your great creatures and their habitats.
Big gOirlly Hugs
Thank’s for your support Nicole.Please, tell all your friend to do the same.
Togather we’ll win.
Gorilla’s are wonderful creature, the more done for them the better. Save them don’t destroy them. Thanks for the vote.
What wonderful news…….keep them coming Kabrizi…….fill this world back up with beautiful gorilla babies! Thanks for sharing….I hope this precious one can have a long full life!
I saw you in San Diego on 10/8/09. I talked to you about a book that had “portraits” of monkeys. The name of the book is “Monkey Portraits” by Jill Greenberg. Take a look at it. I enjoyed your presentation very much! Thank You!
Jacque
Ohhhhhhhhh I so have my peeps voting for these guys big time…we all are rooting form them to win!!!!
Big gorilly Hugs
Congrats … getting the people involved is a revolution !!! WTG Goma !
almost all mokey are all endangered.i think this pic. and explenatoin are all true
i hope many gorillas are safe now and i hope they have many foods and shelter and specially i hope they are happy to there places
Hi Ian.
It feels like I know you but of course I don’t. But I have read four books connected to Dian Fossey, and of course her own, but it was when I read hers and specially Farley Mowat’s book, that I felt that it was a GOOD reading. And that Dian holded you very high, I can really understand that.
She was just a fantastic person with the Gorillas best in her mind. I really would have liked to meet her.
I am from Sweden, living in California since a couiple of years back.
I just wanted to et in contact with you.
Best whishes Agneta.
Spot on !! This is a message that needs to be told loud and clear Ian has mention this on several occations on this blog and via other forums…. Is Ian attending the meeting in Copenhagen at all ?
I completely agree with you, Ian. It makea total sense to me if we, as the human race provide our technical “brothers and sisters” with the same rights as our own selves. However, may i make a suggestion? Might you try to relate to more and all audiances by, say, bringing pictures of a common human being and a common great ape, and show them to the audiance, you would encourage people to donate, volunteer, and more importantly, understand. By understand, i mean they would understand the important link between human beings and great apes. For those of the american race that belive the scientific explaination for the human race (like myself), they would really feel a connection to their ancestors, the great apes (not applied to everyone) and relize what an important link they are to everyone.
why dont people ever talk about the over population issues
in africa
This is where all these problems occur . If they dont find away
to curb this ,there will be no more wild animals in the forest and its people have to go hungry as well, its not politaly
correct to talk about over population the world main issues
Thank you for your conservation efforts. The year of the gorilla is already a success and most tourists on a uganda safari are already contributing to the conservation efforts because of your publicity!
Thanks for your supportive comment, Anna, and yes, I will be attending the Copenhagen Climate Conference for a week, including Forest Day 3, a parallel event which we hope will inform the negotiators with this and other important messages about tropical forest ecosystems. Do please keep reminding your own governments that primates and elephants and fruit bats and birds are not optional extras in forest ecosystems, they are integral to the health of the forest, which is integral to the health of the planet, and our future.
Hope you’ll read lots of press coverage from CoPenhagen!
Cheers,
Ian
Hi!
I am a vet from Argentina, and I have also read Farley Mowat`s book. Dian Fossey was great, she really devoted her life to the cause she loved. I have read many different opinions about her “scientific skills”, and visited some Amy Vedder blog where she calls herself “gorillas best friend” and tells how nobody before her has tracked the gorillas like she did. I have read other Dian`s former students articles, and I see none of them remember that it was Dian the first person to show us the gorilla world. So, Dian Fossey will always be Nyiramachabelli. The only one.
Eli
i love this website because i am doing a project in science over mountian gorillas an this is just great.
Go Gorillas! I love Gorillas! You guys rule! Thankyou so much Wild life direct!
Trying to reach Ian Redmond for speaking engagement, and would
appreciate contact information.
Thank you
Where are you, dear Ian Redmond? I have great respect for your job. I know you found Digit, Dian’s favorite mountain gorilla -an historical event of the largest importance. Thank you, forever! happy holliday!
What great work the YOG Blog is doing. I hope that you had a successful fundraising campaign in the US and we will try to spread the word about the Year of the Gorilla. We just met Ian in India and found out about this wonderful organization. Looking forward to reading more about how we can help the great species on earth.
Please keep away from Lake Kivu until things settle down. Kivu is an “exploding lake” and tremors could cause the vast amounts of methane and carbon dioxide (CO2) to bubble to the surface and smother life around the lake. See:
en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org
Happy New Year! I wish you a vey prosperous 2010!
~Jim
Thank you so so much.
Seeing Titus again and the little juvenile with him was so touching. I grew up knowing about him through Dian Fossey’s eyes and for 25 yrs I have followed his life.
His kindly spirit and patience live on in his off spring-how wonderful is that!
Praying that all the animals will use their instincts to go to safety! Please send another update….CNN said lava was threatening the gorillas………so worried! Take care all!
If you are in or near Goma, along the shore of Lake Kivu, please read my post with links at:
http://gorilla.wildlifedirect.org/2010/01/03/volcano-erupts-but-gorillas-ok/
Who knows if fissures from Mt. Nyamulagira lead to Lake Kivu!
The information here is great. I will invite my friends here.
Thanks
43 Trackbacks
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security patrol…
I can’t believe I missed this! I’m going to have to do some more reading me thinks….
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here. [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here. [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here. [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here. [...]
[...] Read here how Ian’s journey began. [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here. [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here! [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here. [...]
[...] August – The day after my visit to Group 13 , the British Embassy in Kigali kindly hosted a press conference on the Year of the Gorilla and why [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here! [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here! [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here! [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here! [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here! [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here! [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here! [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here! [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here! [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here! [...]
[...] Read Ian’s previous post here! [...]
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