The most endangered of the gorilla species, it is estimated that only 250-300 cross river gorillas still exist worldwide. As in most cases, habitat loss and ruthless poaching are to blame for its critically-endangered status. A grisly reminder of this fact is contained within the video - one of the gorillas is missing a paw, presumably lost to a snare. With the majority of this fragmented population of gorillas located in unprotected areas along the Nigeria-Cameroon border, there is urgent need for enhanced conservation programmes and law enforcement in the area.
 “Spectacular footage such as this, which we've never had before for the cross river gorillas, is absolutely vital to inspire local people, the governments of Nigeria and Cameroon, and the global community to care about and to save this unique subspecies," said James Deutsch, Executive Director, WCS Africa Programme.
Published in Sanctuary Asia, Vol XXXII No. 3, June 2012
