Insightful peek into the dwellings of Earth's remaining mountain gorilla population

In the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo lies Virunga National Park, a vast expanse of lush forests, active volcanoes, and rare wildlife, including elephants, hippos, lions, and the endangered mountain gorillas. Over the past 18 years, photojournalist Brent Stirton has documented the park's promise and peril, capturing its beauty and turmoil in a series of poignant images.

Stirton's photographs, published on the covers of various publications, portray mountain gorillas as human-like beings, with individual characteristics and personalities. His work highlights their gentle nature, particularly their protective instincts towards their families. However, the southern part of the park is threatened by violence from paramilitary organizations and insurgent rebel groups due to its proximity to Africa's bloodiest conflict zones.

One of the most significant threats to the park is the Rwandan-backed rebel group M23, which currently controls half of Virunga. This external backing fuels the conflict, as reported by UN sources and affirmed by the Congolese government, despite Rwanda’s official rejection of these accusations. The park's leadership has been forced to relocate their headquarters three times in the last three years due to the ongoing conflict.

Despite the adversity, the park's leadership has spearheaded initiatives for sustainable hydroelectric power and small-scale farms to provide financial alternatives to extractive industries like mining and charcoal production. These efforts are a testament to the resilience and vision of the park's dedicated staff, who strive to protect Virunga and its inhabitants.

Stirton's book, set to be available online starting September 1, 2025, documents moving images from the park, including a processional for a mortally wounded silverback gorilla, the bond between an orphaned mountain gorilla and her caretaker, the human toll of political conflict, and the grit it takes to advocate for conservation.

The park's survival in the face of adversity is a remarkable achievement, as it has helped protect some of the world's remaining mountain gorillas. The global population of these majestic creatures has increased from fewer than 300 individuals in 2007 to over a thousand today.

Stirton finds the experience of being near mountain gorillas in their natural habitat to be profound and worthwhile, emphasizing their right to exist on the planet. He feels a sense of duty to document the events happening in Virunga National Park due to the full range of human experiences that can be observed there.

Protecting Virunga requires 800 highly skilled park rangers, and about 240 have died in the last 20 years while on duty in the park. The sacrifices made by these rangers underscore the importance of their work and the need for continued support in preserving this unique and vital ecosystem.

As Stirton continues his work in Virunga National Park, his images serve as a testament to the beauty and resilience of this extraordinary place and its inhabitants. His photo book, set to be released in 2025, will offer a powerful and moving portrayal of life in one of the world's most challenging and significant conservation efforts.

Insightful peek into the dwellings of Earth's remaining mountain gorilla population