- Page 19 →Dian Fossey (b. 1932) with Digit (1965-1977). In 1967 Fossey, an occupational therapist, read about the little-understood Mountain Gorillas of Central Africa. She borrowed money and went to see them. Returning home to Louisville, she wrote a newspaper article about the gorillas. Dr. Louis Leakey read it and asked her to live among and study the “gentle giants.” At 37, she left for a new life in Africa, one dedicated to the protection and understanding of the few remaining gorillas in the region. Dr. Fossey continues to study these peaceful vegetarian primates at close range, although never interfering with them. After they are aware of her presence, she patiently waits to establish contact and personal interaction. Here she is shown exchanging gestures and vocalizations gorilla-style with Digit, her friend since 1967, shortly before his death. He was poached by six spearmen and their dogs for the $20 his head and hands would bring from an illegal trader. A similar fate is a constant threat to all the species, of whom only about 250 remain.* This picture is a precious reminder that we could share more with our animal neighbors in life than as trophies on a wall. Dr. Fossey’s first decade has brought her friendships as priceless as the information she has gathered. A Digit Fund has been established for greater protection of the gorillas, with the hope of ensuring their survival.
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