A population of Western lowland gorillas estimated at 125,000 is living in a remote swamp area in equatorial Africa. Researchers announced the discovery Tuesday.
The news came as a shock considering the worldwide population of the species was thought to be around 50,000. Western lowland gorillas are considered critically endangered. Disease and hunting have hurt the population.
Survey teams conducted the research in 2006 and 2007. At the recommendation of hunters, the teams traveled to Lac Tele Community Reserve in northern Republic of Congo. The discovery is being called “the highest-known density of gorillas that’s ever been found.”
Wow! Are they off the endangered list yet?