For decades, mountain gorillas have been subjected to uncontrolled hunting, disease, habitat loss and the ravages of human conflict. Their numbers plummeted, and they are now considered endangered. But it appears that the great primates are ending the decade on a positive note.

A new survey has found that the mountain gorilla population has risen to 1,063 confirmed individuals – still a disconcertingly low number, but a sign that conservation efforts are working. 

The census took place in two natural parks in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where more than 75 trained workers scoured gorilla habitats for fecal samples. The total population amounted to 1,063 gorillas – a considerable increase from 2008 when the animal’s population numbered just 680.

The new study comes as the latest indication that this fragile primate population is slowly recovering, thanks to a mammoth effort on the part of conservationists and local communities to rescue mountain gorillas from the brink of extinction. As part of the efforts, specially-trained vets care for the animals in the wild and patrols work hard to fend off poachers, while park rangers have even given their lives to protect the animals. Carefully managed eco-tourism has also bolstered local economies and encouraged communities to keep mountain gorillas safe.

While the survey results are undoubtedly good news, the primates still remain under the watchful eye of conservationists to ensure that their species remains protected.