Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International

The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of endangered gorillas, particularly the mountain gorillas and the Grauer's gorillas. It was originally founded by Dr. Dian Fossey as the Digit Fund in 1978, following the tragic death of her beloved gorilla, Digit, at the hands of poachers.

Background

Dr. Dian Fossey's groundbreaking research on mountain gorillas in Rwanda laid the foundation for this organization. Her work began at the Karisoke Research Center, which she established in 1967. Fossey's dedication to the gorillas led her to initiate anti-poaching patrols, which significantly reduced poaching activities in the area. The Digit Fund was named in memory of Digit, a gorilla who defended his group against poachers and was subsequently killed.

Activities and Legacy

• Gorilla Protection: The organization continues Fossey's legacy by providing daily protection to gorillas through teams of trackers and anti-poaching patrols.
• Research and Science: It operates the world's longest-running gorilla research site, publishing over 300 scientific papers that have transformed the understanding of gorillas and their habitats.
• Community Support: The fund also works to improve the lives of communities living near gorilla habitats by addressing needs such as healthcare, water access, and food security.
• Education and Training: It offers courses, field training, and funding for advanced degrees to train the next generation of African conservationists and scientists.

The fund expanded its work to include the critically endangered Grauer's gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a region previously lacking protection efforts. Today, thanks in part to the initiatives started by Fossey, mountain gorillas are the only apes whose population is increasing, with approximately 1,000 individuals in the wild.

Impact and Recognition

The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund's approach has been recognized for its effectiveness in protecting gorillas and contributing to a rise in their population. The organization's work is a testament to Dr. Fossey's pioneering spirit and her commitment to saving these endangered species, inspiring a global community to support gorilla conservation.