A mountain gorilla in conflict-torn eastern Congo has welcomed twins, marking a significant event for the endangered subspecies, according to an announcement by Virunga National Park. The birth of two male gorillas to mother Mafuko was confirmed on January 3, with the twins appearing healthy during observation. Virunga National Park, spanning over 7,700 square kilometers and housing a significant population of mountain gorillas, faces challenges due to rebel control and increased forest loss.
Caring for twin gorillas, especially in the early months when they are reliant on their mother for care and transportation, can be demanding, as stated by the park. The newborns are under close monitoring to ensure their well-being. Images released by the park depict Mafuko, a 22-year-old gorilla from the Bageni family, cradling the twin babies amidst leafy branches.
Mafuko, originally from the Kabirizi family, integrated into the Bageni family following her mother’s death by armed individuals in 2007. The birth of the twins is a significant occurrence for the Bageni family and supports conservation efforts to sustain the mountain gorilla population within Virunga National Park. With the recent birth, Mafuko has now had seven offspring, including a previous set of twins that passed away a week after birth in 2016. The Bageni family, currently comprising 59 members, is the largest family within the park.
