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Poaching prevalent
Habitat loss and degradationThere are few protected areas within the eastern lowland gorilla's range. Due to civil unrest, its stronghold, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, is under severe threat from poachers and encroachment, and it has been very difficult for park guards to patrol borders in this region.
People have moved into the park in order to mine coltan, an alloy used for mobile phones. This has also resulted in forests being cleared for farming. Despite these setbacks, in 2004 anti-poaching patrols in the park increased, new rangers have been recruited and trained, and more ranger posts have re-opened.
Find out more about habitat loss
Hunting and trade
The trade in bushmeat, which occurs over much of the eastern lowland gorilla's range, may now be more of a threat than habitat loss and degradation, but the number of gorillas killed annually is unknown. The influx of people into Kahuzi-Biega National Park has also resulted in an increase in bushmeat hunting.
Gorillas are also sought after as food and pets, and their body parts are used in medicine and as magical charms.
Find out more about wildlife trade