Concerns had been raised about the stability of this group after it lost a silverback-Rafiki recently. The news from the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest indicate that the the group of 11 individuals is intact with 4 black backs and 3 infants. The team resported that it was fascinating to watch Furaha, one of the mothers adjust the position of the baby while moving and feeding. “Though the other females were less concerned with our presence, the family has since settled under the leadership of Lwamutwe, the dominant black back and Tabu and the two other black backs are ready to help.
The survey was conducted by the Uganda Wildlife Authority staff and the doctors who were escorted by the UPDF colleagues that usually give support when needed.
Nkuringo was killed a few weeks back by poachers and there was fear that the group could integrate if a new silverback doesn’t emerge! Surprisingly the group has stabilized and Lwamutwe is showing good command of the family.