I wish I could tell you that this was an isolated incident, but it’s not. This was just the latest in a string of slayings — the seventh in the last two months alone. With the clear cutting of forests in isolated areas of the Congo and throughout the developing world, it’s easier than ever for hunters to kill endangered species for sport and profit. Roads built by logging and mining companies give easy access to the once remote habitats of vulnerable animals.

As CI President Russ Mittermeier said, “This is the worst single incident in 30 years, in a region that is normally seen as the only success story for gorillas across the continent.” In the recent tragedy, a gorilla mother was found dead with her infant still clinging to her body.

Protecting these threatened animals, and the habitats they need to survive, is central to Conservation International’s mission. In the Congo, we are working with groups such as the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International and International Gorilla Conservation Programme to put an end to the senseless slaughter of gorillas.

But we can’t do it without your support. Please make a contribution today to protect gorillas and other endangered species. While it may be too late for these mountain gorillas, together we can end the killing of these majestic creatures. Gorillas, and all of nature, are counting on you.

Sincerely,

Vinnie Wishrad
Director, Community and Membership
Conservation International