A mountain gorilla in the conflict-affected eastern region of Congo has welcomed twin baby gorillas, marking a significant event for the endangered species, according to an announcement by Virunga National Park. The birth of two male gorillas to a mother named Mafuko was confirmed on January 3, with both twins appearing healthy during the 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 forest loss from ongoing fighting.
Raising twins presents challenges, especially in the initial months when the infants rely entirely on their mother for care and transportation, as noted in the park’s statement. The newborns are under close monitoring to ensure their well-being and survival. Images released by the park show Mafuko, 22 years old, cradling the baby gorillas amidst green foliage.
Mafuko, originally from the Kabirizi family, integrated into the Bageni family after her mother’s demise at the hands of armed individuals in 2007. The birth of the twin gorillas is a significant event for the Bageni family dynamics and conservation efforts to support the growth of the endangered mountain gorilla population within Virunga National Park. Mafuko has now produced a total of seven offspring, with a previous set of twins passing away a week after birth in 2016. The Bageni family, now comprising 59 members and being the largest in the park, continues to play a crucial role in gorilla conservation efforts.