Mbeli Bai Gorilla Project:
Nouabale Ndoki National Park (NNNP), Republic of Congo
We have talked about this on a past blog so briefly; the Mbeli Bai Gorilla Project is the only long-term demographic study on western gorillas which uses direct observations to provide important baseline information on the 
social organization, demography and behavior of an intact population of gorillas. Detailed studies are also undertaken on the activity of other large mammal species using the bai, such as forest elephants, sitatungas, forest buffaloes as well as otters and many other species. Information and a video from the site can be seen at http://www.houstonzoo.org/gorilla-study/. Nouabale Ndoki National Park is situated in the northwest region of the Republic of Congo near the borders of both Cameroon and the Central African Republic
The focus of this program is not only wildlife research but also supports a very strong community education effort. Lead Researcher Thomas Breuer writes “If we want to ensure the long-term survival of the great apes and limit the risk of diseases transmission, we need to change the attitudes of locals towards the intrinsic value of wildlife in general and the importance of conserving the great apes in particular.” Wildlife research can neither be successful nor sustainable without support from the communities which depend on the same habitat used by the wildlife. Cultural heritage, community knowledge and partnerships are invaluable piece of any effort to protect wildlife and wildlife habitat.
Gorilla at Mbeli Bai. Photo Thomas Breuer
Long-term studies, such as that at Mbeli Bai can provide crucial demographic and life history data which improves our understanding of life history evolution and adaptation and help to refine conservation strategies. Indeed recent findings from Mbeli Bai demonstrate that in this western gorilla population, infants are weaned at a later age (4 years compared to 3 years in mountain gorillas), have higher infant mortality (43% to age 3 compared to mountain gorillas (27.1%) and have much longer inter-birth intervals which could translate into a slower growth rate. Thus, the slow life histories of western gorillas could have major consequences for social structure, mortality patterns and particularly on population growth rates that will affect recovery from population crashes and prospects of survival of this critically endangered great ape species.
The Houston Zoo is hosting Dr. Michael Cranfield, Executive Director of the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project as part of our Call of the Wild Lecture Series September 10th, 20009. Please go to http://www.houstonzoo.org/lectureseries/ for ticket information
Join us tomorrow for a few simple things you can do to help gorilla’s.
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It is wonderful to see so much dedication and effort put into these conservation efforts. I do believe that educating the locals in cohabitation and consevation is crucial to their survival, but I would like to know what is being done in government to ensure that all these efforts aren’t in vain. How is the data collected used to protect the gorillas from not only those who share their home, but those in power to destroy them all?
what are my options to help w/ the conservation efforts for these animals? is supporting our zoo the only way?
ITs wonderful to see such dedication and support to the wonderful animals…
I believe that getting people involved and educated at a local level is great and the way to go. There has been sucess with other animals with this approach.Way to go and keep up all the hard work!
These articles are fantastic! I am proud to have a zoo doing so much to help these gorgeous creatures. Thank you for all of the info, can’t wait until the next installment!
It is interesting to note the observational studies of these gorillas. The reason for this should be studied in detail to find out why they are weaned later. This could be crucial in their survival.
I find this study very enlightening. I believe it is crucial for the local public to get involved so that we may have a positive impact on these gorillas life.
I think it’s great that the community is being educated about these wonderful creatures to help protect them.
How can my family and I help w/ the conservation efforts for the gorillas? I would like to become involved with the Houston Zoo.
I commend my local zoo for the hard work and dedication they have put in to helping these gorillas. We need more help form our community.
I love what the program has to offer, and I hope that they will be able to communicate with the locals in order to change their mindset…I just hope the local people are able to be educated and more open to preserving wildlife before it’s too late.
How can I help with the conservation efforts? I’m definitely going to try to make the next installment in the lecture series, as well.
Thank you for these posts and information on this subject. I was not aware that this species was in such trouble. Please continue to share with us this info.on this situation and the continuing efforts. I do believe we must get the people involved and engaged in the efforts to be successful.
Thanks to everyone for all their efforts in making such a wonderful program!
I believe that the Gorilla is the best feature at the zoo!
Protecting the gorilla is most important….If we all do our part these animals will forever live on….Thank you for all the hard work and dedication by bringing awareness to the public!!!
I haven’t read enough on the Houston Zoo’s efforts to protect the gorillas, so pardon my ignorance. It sounds like a wonderful goal, and I look forward to learning more about the methods and progress of this program.
I’m so glad you guys are talking about the importance of educating the indigenous people. That is such a big part that so many people forget they just want to run in and put a fence around the area and protect wildlife habitat without thinking about others that are living on that land. Thank you for all your doing:)
That picture is just adorable!
I really hope I can make it to the lecture. I am so fascinated by gorillas and I’m so thankful that the Houston zoo has a large wall of glass where you can usually get a great view and sometimes interact with these amazing creatures!
I also buy Endangered Species chocolates every time I’m grovery shopping-it’s a tradition. Yummy chocolate and helping amazing animals-is there anything better!?
“Wildlife research can neither be successful nor sustainable without support from the communities which depend on the same habitat used by the wildlife.”
Very true all over the world, not just in this case!
I think it’s awesome you all are educating the public about this. As an animal lover I appreciate your hardwork and efforts!
I try very hard to be aware of my environmental footprint because our daily moves are determining how much time nature has left before we just ruin it all. I use green friendly products, I drive a Civic Hybrid, I recycle! The animals need us to be aware, we all need to do our part.
I really appreciate the effort gone into public education on these matters!
Thank you for all the hard work you guys do to get the word out about what we can all do to help
Hopefully, the locals will realize that protecting thir wildlife and having a more peaceful environment would bring tourists which would bring money and jobs to the locals
I love the blogs! Will you continue them for different efforts also?
What an amazing job to have – living there and observing all the animals!