A critically endangered gorilla infant, named Barbie, has found refuge at Ape Action Africa after being rescued by the Cameroon Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife (MINFOF). This young female was discovered with heartbreaking injuries – a fractured skull, wounds from restraints, and immense fear. Her trauma highlights the ongoing threat of poaching and the vulnerability of these magnificent creatures.
“Gorilla infants are incredibly fragile,” shared Rachel Hogan, O.B.E., Director of Ape Action Africa. “It took days to determine if she would even allow us to help her. The extent of her injuries was unknown, making her survival uncertain.” Ape Action Africa’s dedicated veterinary team performed surgery to remove a bullet fragment that had broken apart within her.
Barbie, estimated to be 18-24 months old, is now receiving 24-hour care from one of Ape Action Africa’s most experienced gorilla caregivers. This level of attention is vital for her recovery. Her separation from her family suggests a devastating truth: the entire family was likely slaughtered by poachers.
Once Barbie completes her quarantine period, she will join other rescued gorillas in a lush, forested habitat. Sadly, there are currently no release sites in Cameroon for critically endangered Western Lowland gorillas, leaving them with little hope of returning to the wild.
This rescue brings to light the devastating impact of poaching and the global smuggling of Western Lowland gorillas, which has tragically resulted in a population decline of over sixty percent in the last 25 years. Cameroon, located in western Central Africa, remains one of the last refuges for these remarkable animals.
Ape Action Africa, a dedicated conservation sanctuary for endangered primates in Cameroon, has been a crucial partner with the Cameroon Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife (MINFOF) for 27 years. They act as a technical advisor to the ministry, supporting both captive and wild primates. Ape Action Africa operates in the Mefou Park, nestled within the Congo Basin tropical rainforest, where they provide sanctuary to a population of 287 rescued primates.
This story serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect these magnificent creatures from the dangers of poaching and illegal wildlife trade. Together, we can make a difference for gorillas like Barbie and ensure their future generations thrive in their natural habitat. You can support Ape Action Africa’s efforts by signing their letter to social media giants to interrupt this horrific trade: http://friendsofapeactionafrica.org/letter.html
