On Tuesday September 3, Dr. Dawn trekked to mountain gorilla group Ntambara in Volcanoes National Park for two purposes: to conduct a “routine health check” of the group and assess the new infant born to first-time mother Kunga. 

Kunga, holding her 4-day-old infant.

The group was found in the Myase area of Volcanoes National Park, at an elevation of 2993 meters. It was a cold and rainy morning in the park and many of the group members remained obscured by the dense vegetation, making Dr. Dawn’s observation difficult. 

Igisubizo, peeking out from behind dense vegetation.

Silverback Ntambara, feeding during Dr. Dawn’s observation.

Dr. Dawn captures Umuganda feeding on a root.

Dr. Dawn reported that “Eleven of the sixteen gorillas were observed and appeared in good visual health, including Kunga’s 4-day old newborn infant from the little we could see.  The infant was active though not observed nursing during an approximate 25 minute observation.  Kunga held the baby close to her breast so it was impossible to assess her mammary development.” 

Not observed were Bishushwe, Kurinda, Tegereza and infant Twongere-Ingamiya, and Twibuke though Fossey Fund trackers (who regularly monitor the group) report they are doing well.  Gorilla Doctors and Fossey Fund trackers will continue to monitor the new infant to ensure it’s healthy growth and development.

You can follow the Gorilla Doctors health monitoring efforts on our Facebook page, where we post photos and notes from our monthly visits.

Please consider supporting us by making a secure online donation. Every dollar you give goes to directly supporting our gorilla health programs and One Health initiative. Thank you for your generosity.

---