Conservationists have lamented that increasing human activities in reserved forests have led to the extinction of many wildlife.
These activities include deforestation, agricultural expansion, and encroachment.
Speaking at an event to mark World Gorilla Day in Calabar on Tuesday, Andrew Dunn, country director of the Wildlife Conservation Society, said these human activities have led to significant habitat loss and fragmentation.
Dunn disclosed that Cross River gorillas are hunted to near extinction, and are particularly vulnerable, adding that fewer than 300 of them now remain in the world.
Dunn said, “This has made it challenging for wildlife, especially gorillas, to find food and shelter, escalating the risk of human-wildlife conflicts, and exposing them to poachers.
“As their forests dwindle, the vital social structures and genetic diversity of gorilla groups are at risk, too. We can’t let them fade away.”
He said they are stepping up efforts to create a different future for gorillas in Cross River State.
He said these efforts are by engaging with local communities, educating and promoting sustainable practices that help conserve their habitats.
“We also collaborate with national governments to enhance land use planning and ensure that the forests remain intact for future generations.
“They are now considered the most threatened ape in all of Africa. We won’t let them fade away. Our teams are on the ground day and night, working to ensure the safety of gorillas across their range.”