NATURE'S BEST PHOTOGRAPHY
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Western Lowland Gorilla
and Mallard Duck

Gorilla gorilla gorilla
and Anas platyrhynchos

Learn more about Gorilla gorilla gorilla and Anas platyrhynchos from the Encyclopedia of Life

Bronx Zoo, New York, USA
By Tom Warren
Dobbs Ferry, New York, USA

While mallards are commonly found throughout North America and across Eurasia, the peaceful, family- bound gorillas are highly endangered and struggle with loss of habitat, poaching, and disease. Scientists are working with the Republic of Congo government to establish a national complex of protected areas. This zone is among the most important for western lowland gorillas of equatorial Africa. The Bronx Zoo helps raise funds for the Wildlife Conservation Society to protect these magnificent primates.

“Upon arriving at the Bronx Zoo's Congo Gorilla Forest exhibit, I noticed excitement among those viewing the animals. We all watched with amazement as a tiny duckling wandered among the huge western lowland gorillas, who eyed the fuzzy visitor with curiosity. The duckling did not seem the least bit intimidated—and for good reason, as Africa's ‘gentle giants’ eat mostly fruits and plants. I was so fortunate to witness a wonderful moment between two unlikely friends.” —TW

Nikon D80; 180mm ƒ/2.8 lens; B+W clear UV haze filter; 1/200 sec at ƒ/2.8; ISO 640; hand-held.