Mountain Gorilla

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, 2008

Baby mountain gorilla in the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda. In February 2008, we hiked through dense vegetation to see the Amahoro gorilla group. Said to be the most peaceful of the gorilla groups in Rwanda, the 18 members of the Amahoro group were endlessly entertaining to observe. This little guy, in particular, tugged at our heart strings. Inquisitive and playful, the little gorilla rolled about near our feet before climbing a tree and swinging upside down by one leg. This photo captures a momentary connection as he stopped playing to study us from his perch between the branches. 

With fewer than 800 gorillas left, mountain gorillas are highly endangered. Threatened with habitat loss, poaching, and human warfare, their long term survival is tenuous at best. Connecting with these magnificant primates, if just for a few moments, is an experience we'll always cherish. We only hope mountain gorillas survive for future generations to share the experience.