Conservationists in the Democratic Republic of Congo have announced the arrival of twin male mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park.

The infants were born to Mafuko, a 22-year-old survivor who lost her own mother nearly two decades ago.

Twin births are a “rare and remarkable event,” according to the park, occurring in just 1% of pregnancies. While Mafuko previously lost a pair of twins in 2016, park wardens report that this new family appears healthy.

Nevertheless, the first months will be precarious due to the region’s ongoing conflict and the presence of armed groups. To mitigate these risks, rangers have implemented intensive monitoring.

The birth is a vital victory for a species numbering fewer than 1100. Despite the proximity of the M23 militia, Virunga’s population has grown to roughly 350 apes, helping the species’ status improve from critically endangered to endangered.

Reflecting on the arrival during such turbulent times, the Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature stated on social media: “Despite the challenges, life triumphs.”

This birth follows eight other successful deliveries in the park throughout 2025, marking a period of significant growth for the world’s oldest national park.

Image Credit: Source