What are the threats to the eastern lowland gorilla?
Habitat loss and degradation There are few protected areas within the eastern lowland gorilla’s range. Due to civil unrest, its stronghold, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, is under severe threat from poachers and encroachment, and it has been very difficult for park guards to patrol borders in this region. People have moved into the park in order to mine coltan, an alloy used for mobile phones. This has also resulted in forests being cleared for farming. Despite these setbacks, in 2004 anti-poaching patrols in the park increased, new rangers have been recruited and trained, and more ranger posts have re-opened.
