The conservation of mountain gorillas is a remarkable success story, thanks to the efforts of dedicated individuals and organizations, as well as the support of tourists who come to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Gorilla tourism has not only helped protect gorillas but also provided sustainable economic benefits to the region.
The history of gorilla conservation and research in Rwanda and the surrounding region is indeed fascinating, with several notable individuals and organizations contributing to the protection and understanding of mountain gorillas. Here are some key points from the passage:
- Carl Akeley’s Research: Carl Akeley, a scientist from the American Museum of Natural History, was one of the first scientists to study gorillas in the wild. He collected a gorilla family group and established an exhibit in New York. Akeley was passionate about gorillas and their mountain habitat, which ultimately led to his return to the Virunga Mountains in 1926. Unfortunately, he passed away shortly after starting his work and was buried near the Mikeno volcano.
- Walter Baumagartel and Gorilla Trekking: Walter Baumagartel, based in Kisoro, Uganda, played a significant role in the early development of gorilla trekking. His Traveler’s Rest House became known for gorilla trekking, although the gorillas were not habituated at the time. Visitors had the chance to witness thrilling gorilla charges.
- George Schaller’s Research: George Schaller, an American biologist, followed Baumagartel and conducted research on gorillas in the Virunga Mountains. He was a pioneer in the field of ethology, studying animals in their natural habitats, and demonstrated that gorillas were gentle animals that could tolerate human observation if habituated.
- Dian Fossey’s Work: Dian Fossey, at the request of anthropologist Louis Leakey, conducted a long-term study of mountain gorilla behavior. She established the Karisoke Research Station in Rwanda and developed methods for observing gorillas up close without disturbing them. Her work revolutionized public perceptions of gorillas.
- Mountain Gorilla Project: In the mid-1960s, as human settlement and agriculture threatened the gorilla habitat, a coalition of international wildlife organizations created the Mountain Gorilla Project. Their goal was to demonstrate the economic value of gorilla habitat through tourism, leading to the development of gorilla tourism and strict conservation measures.
- Impact of Gorilla Tourism: Gorilla tourism has since become a significant source of income for Rwanda and Uganda, funding conservation efforts and supporting local communities. Strict rules and regulations govern gorilla trekking to protect both gorillas and tourists.
- Dian Fossey’s Opposition to Tourism: Despite her pioneering work in gorilla conservation, Dian Fossey remained opposed to the development of tourism in the gorilla habitat. She feared disturbance to the animals and believed gorillas should be valued and protected for themselves, not as tourist attractions.
- Conservation Success: Today, mountain gorilla populations have rebounded from the brink of extinction, with around 1,030 individuals in the wild. Conservation efforts, including gorilla tourism, have played a crucial role in their survival.
- Cost of Gorilla Permits: To see mountain gorillas, tourists need permits, which vary in cost. In Rwanda, permits cost $1,500 per person, while in Uganda, they are $700 for regular trekking permits and $1,500 for Gorilla Habituation Experiences. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, permits cost $400 each.