Distribution and Habitat.

Cross River gorillas inhabit a small range spanning Nigeria’s Cross River State and Cameroon’s South West Province. They prefer montane and lowland forests with dense understory, often near rivers or rugged slopes that provide natural protection. Due to the fragmented nature of their habitat, these gorillas are spread across multiple isolated forest blocks, each supporting small social groups.

Physical Characteristics and Behavior.

These gorillas are slightly smaller than western lowland gorillas, with dark fur and a pronounced brow ridge. A dominant silverback male leads each group, while females and juveniles form smaller units. Cross River gorillas are primarily herbivorous, feeding on fruits, leaves, stems, and occasionally insects, and they are mostly terrestrial but also climb trees to forage or escape predators.

Population and Conservation Status.

With fewer than 300 individuals remaining, Cross River gorillas are classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN. Conservation efforts focus on protecting forest habitats, preventing hunting, and maintaining connectivity between isolated populations. Local communities are engaged in eco-tourism, forest patrols, and sustainable agriculture to reduce human pressure on gorilla habitats. These measures are crucial to preventing the extinction of this rare subspecies.

Why Cross River Gorillas Matter.

Beyond their ecological role as seed dispersers and forest engineers, Cross River gorillas are a symbol of biodiversity in West Africa. Protecting them safeguards entire forest ecosystems, benefiting countless other species and maintaining the natural heritage of the region.