The Democratic Republic of Congo’s rainforests shelter the critically endangered Grauer’s gorillas, found nowhere else on Earth. These remarkable great apes face mounting threats, pushing them ever closer to extinction. So, what does it take to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect a species in a challenging conservation landscape?
Today, we’re diving into the world of Grauer’s gorillas with Laurie Cummins, Acting Deputy & Education Director at GRACE, the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center in the Democratic Republic of Congo. GRACE is an outstanding sanctuary for orphaned Grauer’s gorillas or eastern lowland gorillas, a critically endangered subspecies of the gorilla. Through their innovative rehabilitation program and deep commitment to community-based conservation, GRACE is pioneering a new path forward for great ape conservation.
In this conversation, Laurie and I explore the fascinating world of Grauer’s gorillas, from their unique characteristics to the complex challenges threatening their survival. We delve into GRACE’s three-pillar approach to conservation, discovering how they’re not just saving gorillas, but transforming entire communities and protecting crucial rainforest habitat. You’ll learn about their groundbreaking rehabilitation program and how their community-first approach is setting a new standard for conservation organizations worldwide.
Alright, that’s enough from me. Let’s journey into the incredible world of Grauer’s gorilla conservation with Laurie Cummins and discover how GRACE is working to secure a future for these remarkable great apes!
Episode Transcript
Disclaimer: Transcripts are AI-generated, unedited, and may contain errors.