Once thought to be extinct, this unique subspecies of gorilla “resurfaced” in the 1980s and is found only along the southern section of the Nigeria-Cameroon border. Preferring habitats of low- and mid-elevation rainforest and montane forest, the remaining Cross River gorillas live in roughly 11 subgroups dispersed amongst the region’s highland areas. One of four known subspecies of gorilla, Cross River gorillas most closely resemble western lowland gorillas but differ in the dimensions of their skulls and teeth. Researchers have also recognized a number of socio-ecological distinctions.

Like other gorillas, the Cross River gorilla reproduces slowly, with females giving birth only once every four to five years. Since their estimated numbers hover at fewer than 300 individuals, this critically endangered species depends on conservation efforts and law enforcement for its survival.

Illegal hunting for bushmeat and habitat loss threaten the future of Cross River gorillas. Until recently, many Cross River gorillas lived outside of protected areas, where they were highly susceptible to poaching. While the region where these gorillas dwell is known for unusually high levels of biodiversity, human population growth is placing increasing pressure on the area’s forests and wildlife. For instance, extensive agriculture and logging operations divide the gorilla’s habitat into isolated blocks.

Since 1996, WCS has supported Cross River gorilla research and conservation efforts throughout the subspecies' range, helping to manage protected areas that provide refuge to these gravely endangered apes. In 2008, together with the government of Cameroon and other partners, WCS helped create Takamanda National Park, which safeguards a third of the Cross River gorilla population. Long-term research studies at sites such as Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary in Nigeria and the Kagwene Gorilla Sanctuary in Cameroon are giving us a better understanding of Cross River gorilla ecology. Studying how these gorilla populations use their limited habitat, WCS will be able to recommend protective measures for wild corridors that link up the disparate groups.

We have also led a series of international workshops to address this gorilla’s conservation. Following the recommendations of the 2007 Regional Action Plan for the Conservation of the Cross River Gorilla, WCS is committed to improving legislation and law enforcement as well as to investigating how ecotourism could support local conservation projects.

WCS has established educational outreach programs for several communities living in and around Cross River gorilla habitat. These programs inspire local people to work alongside our conservationists, whether by supporting community-managed protected areas, as in Nigeria’s Mbe Mountains, or through joining monitoring initiatives, such as the gorilla guardian network in Cameroon. Additionally, WCS is seeking to generate more sustainable livelihoods and encouraging hunters to transfer their skills to further gorilla research and conservation. These community activities promote the area’s traditional regard for Cross River gorillas.