Mountain gorillas are one of the few endangered species whose numbers are actually increasing, thanks to intensive conservation efforts across three African nations.
Mountain gorilla welfare depends on freedom from human-transmitted respiratory diseases — a significant risk given close proximity during tourist trekking activities. Health protocols including minimum approach distances, sick human exclusion, and mask wearing reduce disease transmission risk. Veterinary intervention in wild gorillas, while welfare-improving for treated individuals, requires careful assessment of stress and injury during capture versus benefit of treatment. The social cohesion of gorilla groups is a welfare asset — disruption from poaching or disease removes the social context individuals need for psychological wellbeing. The conservation success in this species demonstrates that intensive, funded, and politically supported programs can reverse declines.