How Many Gorillas Are There Left in the World?

Deep in the forests of Africa, where nature proclaims its majesty with lush greenery, stand powerful yet gentle creatures that form a living bridge between our world and the wild. They are gorillas—intelligent beings who share 98% of our DNA, reminding us of the close kinship that unites us. Gorillas have long fascinated scientists and nature enthusiasts alike, but today they face a harsh reality: they are now among the most endangered species on Earth.

How many are left in the world? What efforts are being made to save them? This comprehensive report seeks to answer those questions.

Gorilla Identity: Types and Population

Gorillas in the wild are divided into two main species, separated by the Congo Basin, which spans about 600 kilometers. Each species has unique characteristics and faces different challenges.

Western Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla)

This is the more numerous of the two species, consisting of two subspecies:

• Western Lowland Gorilla: Estimated between 95,000 and 316,000 individuals as of 2016. It is the most widespread subspecies, found in eight countries: Nigeria, Angola, Cameroon, Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

• Cross River Gorilla: The rarest of all gorilla subspecies, with only 250 to 300 individuals remaining according to 2012 data. They inhabit a border region between Nigeria and Cameroon.

Eastern Gorilla (Gorilla beringei)

This species is more critically endangered than its western counterpart and also includes two subspecies:

• Mountain Gorilla: A conservation success story. Its population increased from 786 individuals in 2010 to 1,004 in 2018 and reached 1,063 by 2024. It is no longer classified as “Critically Endangered,” but rather as “Endangered”—a testament to the intensive efforts to protect it.

• Grauer’s Gorilla (Eastern Lowland Gorilla): Estimated at 3,800 to 6,800 individuals as of 2021. Alarmingly, its population has dropped by 77% since 1994, making it one of the most endangered gorilla subspecies.

Summary Table: Global Gorilla Population

Threats Facing Gorillas: Why Are They Endangered?

Gorillas face a complex range of threats that jeopardize their survival. The most pressing include:

1. Habitat Loss

Human encroachment is one of the biggest challenges for gorilla habitats. As populations grow, demand for land increases—for farming, housing, and infrastructure. Logging and development systematically destroy the forests gorillas rely on for food and shelter.

2. Illegal Hunting and Wildlife Trafficking

Despite strict laws, poaching remains a major threat. Gorillas are hunted for various reasons, including the illegal pet trade and bushmeat, as well as certain traditional beliefs. Sometimes, adult gorillas are killed to capture and sell their infants as exotic pets, often resulting in the death of the young as well.

3. Human-Wildlife Conflict

As human settlements expand into gorilla territory, interactions increase. Gorillas may raid crops in search of food, prompting retaliatory actions by farmers who might harm or kill the gorillas.

4. Diseases and Infections

Because gorillas share 98% of our DNA, they are vulnerable to many of the same diseases. Common respiratory illnesses like colds or influenza can be deadly, as gorillas have weaker immune systems. Proximity to human communities increases the risk of disease transmission.

5. Climate Change

Climate change exacerbates the threats to mountain gorillas, especially regarding their food sources and habitat. Changing weather patterns affect food availability, and irregular rainfall and temperatures alter the vegetation gorillas depend on. Rising temperatures may force them to migrate higher up mountains, leading to overcrowding and competition.

A Glimmer of Hope: Conservation Successes with Mountain Gorillas

Despite the challenges, mountain gorillas represent an inspiring conservation victory. Their population has grown from just 254 in 1981 to 1,063 in 2024—an increase of 26.3% over the past seven years, averaging 3.7% growth per year. This progress is the result of combined efforts, including:

1. Responsible Ecotourism

Gorilla tracking tourism generates millions in funding for conservation and local communities. Permit fees—up to $1,500 in Rwanda, $800 in Uganda, and $400 in the Democratic Republic of Congo—are reinvested in habitat protection and anti-poaching programs.

2. International Collaboration and Continuous Monitoring

Gorilla population surveys rely on teams of trackers, researchers, and vets from Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC. These teams spend weeks in the forest, walking designated paths, looking for signs of gorillas, and collecting fecal samples for DNA analysis to accurately identify each individual. In 2025, a new survey is underway in the Bwindi–Sarambwe ecosystem, which will provide the latest population data.

3. On-the-Ground Protection

Park rangers, employed by government and conservation organizations, monitor gorilla groups, prevent poaching, and respond to human-wildlife conflicts. These rangers often risk their lives, especially in politically unstable or conflict-ridden regions.

4. Community Involvement

Local communities are trained and educated on the importance of gorilla conservation, reducing conflict and promoting sustainable practices. When communities benefit directly from gorilla protection, they become active partners in conservation efforts.

Your Role in Gorilla Conservation

Despite the successes, gorillas still face uncertainty. But there are many ways you can contribute:

• Travel Responsibly: Choose tour operators that follow sustainable practices and adhere to gorilla-watching guidelines. Your permit fees go directly to conservation efforts.

• Support Trusted Organizations: Donate to organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, and International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

• Raise Awareness: Share information about gorilla conservation with friends and family, especially on social media.

• Be a Responsible Consumer: Avoid products that contribute to rainforest destruction, such as unsustainable palm oil or illegally harvested wood.

Final Thought

Mountain gorillas have shown us that hope is not lost. From the brink of extinction, their survival is a triumph of international cooperation and dedication. Now, it's your turn to be part of this story. Support, adopt, and travel responsibly—because protecting these magnificent creatures is not only a moral duty, but an investment in the future of our planet and its precious biodiversity.