How many mountain gorillas are endangered?

As of recent estimates, there are around 1,000 mountain gorillas left in the wild, and they are classified as endangered. These remarkable primates are found only in two specific regions of East Africa: the Virunga Mountains, which span across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda. While their population has seen a slight increase in recent years due to successful conservation efforts, their numbers remain critically low.

Mountain gorillas live in close-knit family groups led by a dominant male, known as a silverback. These groups are generally stable, with females and young gorillas remaining within the same family unit, which aids in their survival. Currently, conservation strategies include habitat protection, anti-poaching patrols, and controlled tourism, all of which have contributed to the gradual rise in population numbers.

In 2018, mountain gorillas were reclassified from "critically endangered" to "endangered" due to these positive trends. However, the population is still fragile, and ongoing efforts are essential to prevent further decline. The majority of these gorillas live in protected national parks, such as Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.