Gorilla Run has primates rushing through river valley

If you happened to spot a couple hundred gorillas rushing through the river valley, don't worry: it probably isn't the precursor to a primate invasion.

Instead, they'remore likely taking part in this year's Gorilla Run, which aims to raise awareness about the plight of mountain gorillas.

"It's about people helping people and helping to save a critically endangered species at the same time," said Raemond Bezenar, executive director of Mountain Gorilla Conservation Society of Canada.

The gorillas, native to central Africa, are at risk largely due to poaching, habitat loss and war the African Wildlife Association estimates there are fewer than 900 living mountain gorillas left.

Bezenar says all the fund raised through the run go towards scholarships for African students to study subjects that will "directly impact" the survival of the species, such as specializing in gorilla care.

"When it comes down to gorillas, you basically need a gorilla doctor," she said.

As part of the race's entry fee, runners are given a gorilla suit to wear while running the 5K route. Bezenar said participants are also encourages to wear costumes overtop of those, achieving a sort of costume inception.

The fundraiser also sells stuffed gorillas to be donated to patients at the Stollery Children's Hospital.