Mountain gorilla numbers grow

The number of mountain gorillas roaming forests shared by Rwanda, Uganda and Congo has risen in recent years in a sign of hope for one of the world's most endangered species, a census showed.

Trackers prevented from conducting research for years by war said the population of the majestic apes in the Virunga volcano chain had risen to 380 from 324 when the last census was completed 15 years ago.

Rwanda is hoping to expand its small tourism industry by attracting more visitors to view the gorillas, brought to worldwide attention by late American primatologist Diane Fossey whose work was featured in the film "Gorillas in the Mist".

Conservationists say mountain gorillas are only found on the borders of Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where they are confined to two forest blocks some 45 km apart.