Dian Fossey: Friend to Africa's Gorillas

By Robin S. Doak

This book takes an engaging look at the work of ground-breaking conservationist, Dian Fossey, and her work with mountain gorillas. It covers Fossey's inspiration, her methods, findings, and the impact of her work in Africa.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Capstone Young Readers
• Release date: Aug 1, 2021
• ISBN: 9781484665879

Book preview

Women in Conservation: Dian Fossey by Robin S. Doak

Contents

Cover

Title Page

Who Was Dian Fossey?

What Was Fossey’s Early Life Like?

What Were Fossey’s Early Trips to Africa Like?

How Did Fossey Study Gorillas?

Why Did Fossey Return to Africa?

Was Fossey in Danger?

What Impact Did Fossey’s Work Have on Animal Conservation Causes?

Timeline

Glossary

Find Out More

Index

Copyright

Back Cover

Cover

Title Page

Contents

Start of Content

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back cover

Who Was Dian Fossey?

Dian Fossey was 34 years old when she left her home and job in Kentucky and moved to Africa. She spent the next 19 years studying mountain gorillas, an endangered species. She devoted her life to researching these mysterious creatures, which are some of humankind’s closest relatives.

Each day Fossey trekked into the mountains of Rwanda. She spent hours sitting and observing the animals’ behaviors. Over time the gorillas came to trust and even accept her. She developed strong bonds with a number of the animals and cared deeply about all of them.

The Virunga Mountains. A large rainforest is in front of the mountains.

The rain forests of the Virunga Mountains are home to the endangered mountain gorilla.

Educating humans, saving gorillas

Fossey’s research led to increased knowledge about mountain gorillas. She uncovered many new facts about these gentle giants. She brought the gorillas to the attention of the world. Thanks to Fossey, people all over the globe came to know the gorillas she had named Digit, Peanuts, and Uncle Bert. And just like her, people came to care deeply about whether these animals lived or died.

Fossey was not afraid to make enemies to protect her gorillas. She waged war against those who tried to harm the animals. In the end, her aggressive methods led to her death. But Fossey’s work did not die with her. Today people around the world still work to make sure that gorillas do not become extinct.

Dian Fossey reading to 2 gorillas.

Dian Fossey brought international attention to mountain gorillas.