What is it about?

This study targeted one of the least studied gorilla populations in central Africa -the Ebo gorilla. Related to the two recognized gorillas’ subspecies in Cameroon, the taxonomy of the Ebo gorilla is not clearly defined and its ecology is still to be studied. Using the Kernel Density Estimate method combined with grid cell counting, we found that the distribution of gorillas was restricted to ~22 km² in the northern part of the Ebo forest. Hunting signs represented the most evidence of human activities in the area. The results from this study are helpful to plan conservation in the locality. Our findings show that Ebo gorillas use in preference the grassland habitat than any other habitat in this ecosystem. Hunting signs represent the most evidence of human activities in the area.

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Why is it important?

All gorilla subspecies are currently considered endangered or critically endangered. Thus, it is very crucial to preserve and protect both the remaining populations and their habitat. For this reason, the distribution range of each single population should be well known and described. This study targeted one of the least studied gorilla populations in central Africa, the Ebo gorilla population. Ebo gorilla population is found in the sub montane forest located 60 km north to the Sanaga River in Cameroon. Isolated to the two recognized gorillas’ subspecies in Cameroon, Ebo gorilla is remaining taxonomically unknown and its ecology is little studied. The results from this study are helpful to plan conservation in the locality. The difference in habitat use is very important in land use planning of the Ebo forest, as this forest is a target for many management options. our founding will also boost the activities undertaken by the community conservation association baptize Club des Amis de Gorilles.

Perspectives

I hope that this article will help to draw the attention of people concerning the Ebo gorilla and thereby boosting the conservation of this relic and unique gorilla population. Our expectation is that the article lead to mobilize many people with various background to ultimately getting involve in the lobbying of the preservation of the habitat of Ebo gorillas. More than anything else, More than anything else, I hope you find this article very interesting and valuable for great apes conservation projects.

Daniel Mfossa
Ebo Forest Research Project, Cameroon

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Distribution, habitat use and human disturbance of gorillas ( Gorilla gorilla ) in the Ebo forest, Littoral Region, Cameroon, African Journal of Ecology, July 2022, Wiley,
DOI: 10.1111/aje.13052.
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