The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International was founded in 1978 by Dr. Dian Fossey to preserve and protect the world's remaining mountain gorillas. The Fund is committed to gorilla protection, science, field research, education and awareness, and economic development. The Fund's activities take place on many levels and places, with people from Africa, the United States and around the world.

The Fund sustains many important programs in its mission to conserve and protect gorillas and their habitat in Africa. These include monitoring and protecting the mountain gorillas in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park through tracking, anti-poaching patrols and other programs; working with critical conservation projects in other areas where wild gorillas live; assessing the health problems of those who live near gorillas as well as related gorilla health issues; and conducting scientific studies of gorilla ecology, behavior, health and population status.

Adopt a Gorilla ... Save a Species

An excellent way to help protect the last remaining mountain gorillas is to adopt a gorilla. They also make wonderful gifts for your friends and loved ones throughout the year. When you adopt a gorilla, you receive a personalized photo and an adoption certificate, both of which are mounted in an attractive frame; an adoption "profile," which is a detailed information sheet written by field scientists about the particular gorilla or gorillas adopted; the latest newsletter from The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, as well as a year's subscription to this fact-filled publication about the gorillas; and a colorful window cling that can be displayed to show support of the gorillas. Proceeds from adoptions directly support the gorillas monitored by the Karisoke Research Center staff, who operate in Volcanoes National Park.

To learn more, visit The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International's Web site. (You are leaving discovery.com for a site not operated by or affiliated with Discovery.)