Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting mountain gorillas and their habitats in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The fund was started by Dian Fossey, an American primatologist who studied and fought to save gorillas from poachers and habitat destruction. Today, the fund continues its mission through conservation, research, education, and community support. The Fund was started by Dian Fossey in 1978 for the sole goal of financing her anti-poaching patrols and preventing further poaching of mountain gorillas. Dian Fossey studied at her Karisoke Research Center in the Virunga Volcanoes of Rwanda. The non-profit fund was named in memory of Fossey’s favorite gorilla, Digit, who was beheaded by poachers for the offer of US$20 by a Hutu dealer who specialized in selling gorilla heads as trophies and gorilla hands as ashtrays to tourists.
Who Was Dian Fossey?
Dian Fossey was a famous scientist who spent almost 20 years studying gorillas in the Virunga Mountains. She discovered that gorillas have strong family bonds and are gentle creatures. She also raised awareness about the dangers they face, especially from poaching and deforestation. Sadly, she was killed in 1985, but her work lives on through the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
What Does the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Do?
The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund is involved in several key activities:
- Gorilla Protection: The fund works with rangers and conservationists to protect gorillas from poachers and illegal wildlife trade.
- Scientific Research: Experts study gorillas to understand their behavior and needs.
- Community Support: The fund helps local communities by providing jobs, education, and healthcare.
- Environmental Conservation: The organization plants trees and protects forests to ensure a safe habitat for gorillas.
Why Are Mountain Gorillas Endangered?
Mountain gorillas are critically endangered due to:
- Habitat Loss – Forests are being destroyed for farming and settlements.
- Poaching – Illegal hunters target gorillas for bushmeat and trophies.
- Diseases – Gorillas can catch human diseases, which can be deadly for them.
- Climate Change – Changes in the environment affect their food and home.
How Can You Help Protect Mountain Gorillas?
If you love wildlife conservation and want to help, here’s what you can do:
- Donate to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to support conservation efforts.
- Visit Rwanda or Uganda for a gorilla trekking safari and contribute to local tourism.
- Adopt a Gorilla – Many organizations offer symbolic gorilla adoption to fund their protection.
- Spread Awareness – Share information about gorilla conservation with others.
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