In pictures: Seeking DR Congo's wildlife

The scientists found very few signs of gorillas in areas they used to inhabit and none at all of forest elephants, which have probably died out in this area.

This is a member of the golden mole family, which is common in southern Africa but rare so high up.

It has evolved so there are no external signs of the eyes or ears it once had but does not need underground.

Photos and words: Kim Gjerstad
Wildlife Conservation Society