How Many Gorillas Are Left in the World?

Richard Ashurst/CC-BY-2.0

As of 2014, the number of gorillas left in the world is around 100,000, and their population is steadily decreasing. There are two species of gorillas, and both are endangered. Only 600 mountain gorillas are left in the wild.

The destruction of gorilla habitats and poaching are responsible for the dwindling numbers. Global warming is also destroying vegetation and making it hard for gorillas to find food. Large numbers of gorillas have been killed by viruses, such as Ebola. In parts of Africa in which food is scarce, people kill gorillas for their meat. People also kill gorillas when they feed on food crops meant for human consumption.

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