A group of western lowland gorillas in the Congo Basin. Photo courtesy of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).
A new study in PLoS ONE shows that protected areas are essential for saving three key species in the Congo Basin: western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and forest elephants. The study finds that these species are particularly dependent on National Parks and strong anti-poaching efforts. Two of the species, gorillas and elephants, are found in logging concessions, but only if those concessions are adjacent to protected areas and also have strong anti-poaching measures.
To read more about the study: Protected areas vital for saving elephants, chimps, and gorillas in the Congo.