Gorilla Conservation ) at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

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Vol 11 2009 Gorilla Conservation ) at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda. | © Gerald Dick, WAZA Gerald Dick, Uganda. | © ) at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Gorilla beringei Mountain gorilla ( WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

Contents Introduction | Gerald Dick ...... 1 Djeke Gorilla Project in Nouabalé‑Ndoki National Protecting Africa’s rarest gorilla: Park, Republic of Congo, conservation of the cross river Creating an educational trail gorilla in Cameroon and Nigeria | for eco‑tourists | Andrew Dunn Florence Perroux ...... 22 & Aaron Nicholas ...... 3 Le projet Gorilla Djeke au Parc Protection du gorille le plus National Nouabalé ‑Ndoki, rare de l’Afrique: Conservation République du Congo du gorille de Cross River Création d’un parcours au Cameroun et le Nigeria ...... 8 didactique pour les éco ‑touristes ...... 25 Addressing the trade in apes in Africa | Partners In Conservation (PIC): Neil Madisson ...... 11 Poverty alleviation as key Imprint Traiter le commerce for Mountain gorilla conservation des grands singes en Afrique ...... 13 (Gorilla beringei) | Editor: Gerald Dick, Charlene Jendry ...... 26 WAZA Executive Office A gorilla researcher’s Partenaires en conservation (PIC): Lindenrain 3 perspective on the Year Lutte contre la pauvreté en tant CH 3012 Bern of the Gorilla 2009 | que clé pour la conservation Switzerland Thomas Breuer ...... 14 du Gorille de Montagne phone: +41 31 300 20 30 Une perspective d’un chercheur (Gorilla beringei) ...... cover III fax: +41 31 300 20 31 de gorille sur l’Année du Gorille 2009 ...... 20 Layout and typesetting: [email protected] Print: Agentura NP, Staré Město, CZ French translations: Nadine Renaudeau d’Arc

Edition: 1500 copies © WAZA June 2009

This edition of WAZA Magazine is also available on www.waza.org (members’ area).

Printed on FSC paper.

ISSN: 2074-4528 WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 1

Gerald Dick, WAZA Executive Director Introduction »

The first new edition of the WAZA Magazine is dedicated to gorilla con‑ servation, and there are many good reasons for that. The most important one is the urgent need to conserve viable wild populations of gorillas in order to prevent their extinction. All four gorilla subspecies remain clas‑ sified as “endangered” or “critically © Gerald Dick, WAZA endangered” on the IUCN Red List of Self-portrait with one of critically engangered “gentle giant”, Uganda, May 2009. threatened species.

In order to support and guide gorilla mentation of the new CMS agree‑ initiative, 108 zoos are actively sup‑ conservation, WAZA has joined hands ment on the conservation of gorillas porting gorilla conservation through with CMS (Convention of Migratory and their habitats which came active various means. Information material Species of Wild Animals of UNEP) and in June 2008. As educating the wider is used to inform and educate visitors, GRASP (Great Ape Survival Partner‑ public and raising awareness in order an education manual is provided ship of UNEP/UNESCO) to declare to get more support for projects is on the WAZA and IZE websites for 2009 the Year of the Gorilla. A major key, the world zoo community can zoo educators and teachers, special objective of the initiative is the imple‑ play a crucial role. In support of this events like gorilla days are organ‑ ised, special fundraising events also help to support in situ projects. In this edition of the WAZA Magazine, gorilla projects of the WAZA branded project list are introduced. They are dealing with the Cross River Gorilla, Western Lowland Gorilla and Moun‑ tain Gorilla, addressing threats like logging and bush meat trade but also offering some solutions, based on re‑ search. These examples illustrate the important role of the zoo community in conservation, as also laid out in the World Zoo and Aquarium Conserva‑ tion Strategy.

Cross River Gorilla Western Lowland Gorilla Eastern Lowland Gorilla Mountain Gorilla 2 Introduction WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

I have had the pleasure to attend Apart from these interesting and the 2009 Annual General Meeting encouraging figures, there is also of PAAZAB, the African Associa‑ emotional convincing support for tion of Zoos and Aquaria in Entebbe, such activities: these species are Uganda and explore the potential of humankind’s closest relatives and ecotourism as an economic incentive an encounter with habituated gorilla and mechanism for support of local groups in the wild is something so communities and conservation. In touching that you will never forget. Uganda the revenue from the official As I was privileged to see wild goril‑ gorilla permits alone was 1,2 million las at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest US Dollars in 2008 and 20% of that I can confirm and share these strong money generally goes directly to the feelings and sincerely hope that communities concerned. In addition the implementation of the gorilla there is money spent by the gorilla agreement and the ongoing support tourists for the tour operators as well of zoos will help to save all gorilla as on souvenirs, trekking support, ac‑ subspecies. commodation and other related costs. 9 Hence, gorilla tourism has become an important source of income for local people and gorillas are regarded as an important resource. Year of the GORILLA Année du GORILLE 200

© Aaron Nicholas WCS Takamanda-Mone Landscape Project, Cameroon The heart of the Cameroonian Cross River gorilla landscape. They have found refuge in this beautiful but challenging terrain. WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 Protecting Africa’s Rarest Gorilla 3

Andrew Dunn & Aaron Nicholas WAZA Project 8010 Protecting Africa’s Rarest Gorilla: » Conservation of the Cross River Gorilla in Cameroon and Nigeria

With fewer than 300 individuals Little is known about just how many The Cross River gorilla was first remaining the Cross River gorilla Cross River gorillas may have once named as a new species in 1904 but Gorilla gorilla diehli is recognized roamed this area. However a recent was largely neglected by the outside by IUCN as Critically Endangered genetic study suggests that the Cross world until the 1980s when the first and is the most threatened taxon of River gorilla population has under‑ systematic surveys of this unique ape in Africa. Restricted to a small gone a marked reduction in size with‑ ape began in Nigeria. The Wildlife mountainous area located at the in the last 100–200 years, probably as Conservation Society (WCS) has headwaters of the River Cross strad‑ a result of the introduction of modern supported long‑term research on the dling the border between Cameroon firearms. The population today is Cross River gorilla since 1996. Initial and Nigeria, the Cross River gorilla is at a perilously low level and gorillas work focused on ecological studies the most western and northern type survive only in the most rugged areas, and surveys but has since expanded of gorilla. Spread across an area of protected by their own adaptability into a broad program of research and about 12,000 km2 Cross River gorillas and by the relative inaccessibility of conservation activities in both Nigeria are today found in roughly 11 discrete the region and/or where local com‑ and Cameroon. This program now sites, most of which are separated munities have strong local beliefs involves government agencies, uni‑ from each other by 10 km or more. favouring their protection. Much versities and NGOs (in particular, the This landscape ranges in altitude from of the montane forest that once Wildlife Conservation Society, the Ni‑ 200 m to more than 2,000 m with harboured gorillas in the past has gerian Conservation Foundation, the corresponding changes in vegetation been lost, and further fragmentation World Wide Fund for Nature, Fauna from lowland to montane forest. of the remaining habitat threatens to and Flora International, Pandrillus, isolate the gorillas in their mountain San Diego Zoo, the North Carolina refuges. As the surrounding human Zoo and Cameroon’s Environment population continues to grow, and and Rural Development Foundation). as development has led to new road With support from a variety of donors building and to an increased demand significant progress has been made for farmland and forest produce across the gorilla’s range in terms of (including bush meat) the gorillas’ protected area creation and manage‑ status has become critical. Although ment, capacity building, the develop‑ cases of devastating diseases such as ment of infrastructure, the provision Ebola and anthrax have not yet been of essential biological information recorded Cross River gorillas often and increased community involve‑ live in close proximity to humans and ment in conservation efforts. A series their livestock and so are at risk to of international workshops have been a variety of pathogens and parasites, organised by WCS to plan for more moreover the small sizes of the effective conservation of the Cross The population remaining Cross River gorilla groups River gorilla. As a result of these renders them extremely vulnerable workshops (Calabar 2001, Limbe 2003 today is at to the effects of introduced disease and Calabar 2006) a Regional Action (Oates et al, 2007). Plan for the Conservation of the Cross a perilously River gorilla1 for 2007–2011 was pro‑ duced. Although many of the activi‑ low level and ties specified in this plan have already been completed much still remains to gorillas survive be done. only in the most rugged areas…

1 Regional Action Plan for the Conservation of the Cross River gorilla (Oates et.al., 2007). 4 Protecting Africa’s Rarest Gorilla WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

© courtesy of Richard Bergl, North Carolina Zoo Map of Cross River Gorilla distribution, evolving understanding of the Cross River gorillas range over the last 8 years. Red areas indicate the estimated areas being used by different Cross River gorilla groups.

Support for protected area creation and development

Although the Cross River gorilla is Survival prospects for the Cross River Takamanda National Park was gazet‑ distinguished from western gorillas gorilla received a welcome boost ted in November 2008 and conserva‑ Gorilla gorilla gorilla only by careful recently with the creation of two tion activities including boundary measurements of their skeletons new protected areas in Cameroon: demarcation, conservation educa‑ recent research indicates that there Kagwene Gorilla Sanctuary and tion, developing community access may be ecological differences as Takamanda National Park. This is and management strategies, park well. The area inhabited by the Cross now a critical time for the Ministry protection and the elaboration of River gorilla has a more markedly of Forestry and Wildlife (MINFOF) a management plan are all currently seasonal climate, with a longer and who must work with WCS to develop underway with co -financing from the more severe dry season and higher detailed management and monitor‑ German Development Bank (KfW). levels of rainfall during the wet sea‑ ing strategies for these areas. Created Takamanda is an important refuge son, than the area occupied by other in April, 2008 the Kagwene Gorilla for 2–3 groups of Cross River gorillas – western gorillas. Under such climatic Sanctuary is the first protected area one of these groups being contiguous extremes there are frequent peri‑ established specifically for the con‑ with the Okwangwo Division of Cross ods of fruit scarcity and Cross River servation of the Cross River gorilla. River National Park in Nigeria. An‑ gorillas need to supplement their diet Although it covers an area less than other protected area that is receiving with tree bark and lianas during such 20 km2 Kagwene is the only site where increasing attention is the Mone For‑ times. daily non ‑invasive monitoring of Cross est Reserve, a site that was previously River gorillas takes place (initiated in earmarked for upgrading because of 2003). Kagwene is also proving to be its important botanical and wildlife an ideal training site for building the attributes, but is also being consid‑ capacity of conservation professionals, ered for carbon ‑sequestration based researchers, students and community funding with the support of the Unit‑ members thanks both to the well ed Nations Development Programme organised monitoring as well as the and Great Ape Survival Partnership presence of a well developed research (UNEP/GRASP). camp staffed and managed by WCS. WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 Protecting Africa’s Rarest Gorilla 5

Working with local communities to protect gorillas

A significant proportion of the Cross River gorilla population occurs in areas of unprotected forest, particu‑ larly in Cameroon. Many of these outlying forest areas are threatened © Nicky Lankester by a variety of human activities „Nyango“ – the only one in human care at Limbe Wildlife Centre. including hunting and habitat loss (through farming, burning and road development). Since local communi‑ ties depend heavily on forest re‑ In Nigeria, Cross River gorillas are Cross River National Park is the sources to supplement local incomes found in two well ‑established pro‑ most important site for Cross River we must strike a balance between tected areas: Afi Mountain Wildlife gorillas in Nigeria and a focus of our local human needs and conservation Sanctuary and the Okwangwo Divi‑ current conservation efforts. Cross if our efforts to protect the Cross sion of Cross River National Park. Afi River National Park was created in River gorilla are to succeed in the Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary (AMWS) 1991 from an amalgamation of four long term. A network of community‑ was created in 2000 and covers former forest reserves and consists of ‑based‘ gorilla guardians’ has been an area of approximately 100 km2. the Oban Division (about 3,000 km2) established in Cameroon to improve AMWS is managed by the Cross River south of the Cross River and the the survival prospects for gorillas in State Forestry Commission in part‑ Okwangwo Division (640 km2) north the most vulnerable forest sites that nership with a number of NGOs in‑ of the Cross River. Gorillas are only currently lack either government or cluding Fauna and Flora International, found in the northern Okwangwo Di‑ NGO support. The gorilla guardian Pandrillus, the Nigerian Conservation vision: one group occupies the former approach aims to promote the con‑ Foundation and WCS. Although levels Boshi Extension Forest Reserve and servation of these Cross River gorillas of hunting have reduced somewhat the second occupies the Okwa Hills in three important ways. Firstly, the since the creation of the sanctuary and are known to range across the appointed guardians act as a direct there are estimated to be no fewer border into Takamanda National link between conservation authori‑ than 600 illegal farms inside the Park. Despite the efforts of park ties and these sites, reporting any sanctuary. Although the steep moun‑ authorities hunting is widespread confirmed incidence of gorilla hunt‑ tainous slopes of the sanctuary have in Okwangwo – partly as a result of ing to government officials and WCS largely protected it from logging Afi three enclaved villages located within quickly. This will help strengthen the is frequently damaged by dry‑season the park boundaries. Enclaves were application of wildlife laws. Secondly, fires that spread from surrounding created to accommodate these vil‑ gorilla guardians are responsible for farms. Open areas created by fire lages when the former forest reserve the ongoing gathering of informa‑ are soon colonised by herbs which was established in 1930. Since then tion concerning the location of gorilla form an important staple food for the villages have increased markedly nests from forest users within their gorillas at Afi. Of particular concern is in size and their expanded farmlands community (particularly from hunt‑ the widespread logging and farming now threaten to divide the park into ers). This information will be recorded within the lowlands of the surround‑ two isolating the forests and gorillas on a community ‑produced forest ing Afi River Forest Reserve which in the Okwa Hills from those in the map. Research staff from WCS and threatens to sever the link that cur‑ Boshi Extension. WCS is currently government then visit each village rently connects Afi Mountain Wildlife working with the National Park Serv‑ 2–3 times a year, to conduct surveys Sanctuary to the Mbe Mountains. ice to produce a management plan of recorded nest sites in conjunction for Cross River National Park that with the gorilla guardians. gives special emphasis to the conser‑ vation of the Cross River gorilla. We also currently provide support for ranger training, construction of new ranger posts, joint gorilla surveys and monitoring and the provision of es‑ sential field equipment. 6 Protecting Africa’s Rarest Gorilla WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

Preserving connectivity Raising awareness between Cross River through conservation gorilla sites education

Our knowledge of the present dis‑ Given the fact that so many people tribution of the Cross River gorilla is live in close proximity to the range expanding all the time, field teams occupied by the Cross River gorilla having recently confirmed gorilla raising awareness about the value of presence in a number of previously conservation and the uniqueness of un ‑surveyed forest areas, particularly these gorillas in particular remains in Cameroon. Genetic studies across a strong central component of our © WCS all Cross River gorilla sites have also long ‑term conservation strategy. Ac‑ Hunter with 2 red ‑eared monkeys shed light on patterns of related‑ tive conservation education programs Cercopithecus erythrotis in Cross River National Park. ness and migration which in turn has are now well established in many of helped us identify potential habitat the villages and schools surround‑ corridors based on spatial analysis ing most though not all Cross River Given typical nest decay rates in studies. In the last year, survey teams gorilla sites. Our work focuses on the the area, it should be possible for and researchers have been active creation of and support for schools‑ monitoring teams to visit most in both countries ground ‑truthing ‑based conservation clubs and has recorded nest sites on these regular potential corridor areas and we are gradually expanded to include sup‑ visits. Lastly, gorilla guardians play an gradually improving our understand‑ port for the creation of local forest important role in building awareness ing of the characteristics of habitat management committees, radio out‑ amongst their communities concern‑ corridors to ensure effective future reach programs, posters and the use ing a range of topical conservation management. of ape films distributed by the Great issues as an extension of present Ape Film Initiative. Our conservation conservation education programmes Today Cross River gorillas are concen‑ education outreach program now implemented by WCS across the trated in the most rugged highland covers more than 90 communities Cross River gorilla landscape. areas where levels of disturbance and more than 130,000 people in Ni‑ from hunting and farming are re‑ geria and Cameroon. These efforts by In Nigeria, WCS is providing support duced compared to the surrounding WCS and others to improve levels of to help create a community ‑owned lowlands. Work in recent years has environmental education and aware‑ and managed wildlife sanctuary in shown that the geographic isolation ness since 2001 have contributed to the Mbe Mountains. Mbe is one of of many sites has not yet resulted a marked reduction in the level of only three Cross River gorilla sites in in their genetic isolation and that gorilla hunting. The presence of long‑ Nigeria but lacks any formal protec‑ individual gorillas do occasionally ‑term research projects at some of tion status. In 2005 the nine communi‑ move between sites in spite of the the sites has also undoubtedly helped ties that surround the mountain and high levels of human activity in the to reduce hunting. But these efforts who claim traditional ownership rights forests and their ongoing fragmenta‑ need to be continued and expanded, came together to form the Conserva‑ tion. Large tracts of lowland forest especially to those unprotected sites tion Association of the Mbe Moun‑ survive to act as corridors linking sites in Cameroon. tains (CAMM). Mbe covers an area of as well as providing for the possibil‑ around 100 km2 and is an important ity of future population expansion if link in the landscape connecting Afi key human pressures can be reduced. Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary to the Further work is underway to help west with Cross River National Park define what constitutes ideal habitat to the east. WCS currently provides corridor areas and to what extent support to CAMM not only for gorilla human and ecological factors need monitoring and protection but also to be considered in defining likely for training, boundary demarcation, corridors. the construction of ranger posts and socio-economic surveys. Nine eco‑ guards patrol the mountain on a daily basis collecting information on gorillas and other wildlife – their presence also acts to deter poaching and to reinforce local rules and regulations. WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 Protecting Africa’s Rarest Gorilla 7

Improving our knowledge and understanding of the Cross River gorilla through research and monitoring

WCS is proud of its reputation as a science ‑based conservation or‑ ganization and all of our important field based actions are grounded by baseline studies and ongoing monitoring. But Cross River goril‑ las are difficult animals to study: as a result of past hunting pressure they are now rare and those that survive are understandably wary of humans. Data provided by daily monitoring of © Allen Turner the gorillas in Kagwene has helped Mbe ecoguards relaxing at the foot of the mountain with volunteer Naomi Cohen after a patrol. us establish an effective sanctuary boundary, and from a study of gorilla Trans‑boundary large mammal sur‑ da and Kagwene in Cameroon). Based feeding ecology we now understand veys and mapping of various conserva‑ on the Cybertracker software these the importance of the distribution tion threats including illegal logging, units allow the collection of standard‑ of both dry and wet season favoured river poisoning, bush ‑burning etc in ized, georeferenced data by monitor‑ foods and the need to conserve areas such as Takamanda National ing teams in the field. The develop‑ a range of habitat types if the go‑ Park and Cross River National Park, is ment was made possible with support rilla’s dietary needs are to be met. also providing information that will from the Great Ape Conservation help us devise more effective manage‑ Fund of the United States Fish and In Mone Forest Reserve, a recent ment strategies for protected areas. Wildlife Service and training provided botanical reconnaissance in collabo‑ by Dr. Richard Bergl of North Carolina ration with the Royal Kew Botanical As part of our ongoing efforts to Zoo. By using this technology we Gardens has confirmed the excep‑ improve gorilla monitoring we hope to be able to improve the qual‑ tional botanical richness of Mone, have recently introduced the use of ity of the data that our ecoguards col‑ while surveys of illegal logging in the a hand ‑held computer ‑based data lect in the field, improve our database same area are providing insights into capture system at four sites (Mbe and management and the effectiveness of how the biodiversity of this area can Okwangwo in Nigeria and Takaman‑ our conservation efforts. be protected for future generations. Across the Okwangwo ‑Takamanda‑ ‑Mone landscape, extensive distri‑ bution surveys have provided the clearest indication yet of where Cross River gorillas still occur.

We recently helped (with support from the USFWS and Margot Marsh Biodiversity Foundation) local communities adjacent to the most vulnerable (unprotected) Cross River gorilla sites to estab‑ lish a community based ‘Gorilla Guardian’ network. Here 2 of the present 6 Gorilla Guardians are shown – Peter Tipa and Moses Takia, together with a local hunter. They are measuring a Cross River Goril‑ la nest – one of the functions that the guardian perform is the moni‑ toring of local Cross River gorilla populations. Every 2–3 months, a combined WCS/Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife team visit each Gorilla Guardian village to learn more about the monitoring that has taken place and to talk to local hunters and the community. This is being evaluated as a community‑driven approach to conservation as an alternative to the traditional way of created protected areas.

Conservation Abstract/Conclusion Protection du gorille without Boundaries le plus rare de l’afrique: The Cross River gorilla faces an uncer‑ Conservation du gorille Given the distribution of the Cross tain but far from bleak future. There de cross river au Cameroun River gorilla, and the nature of the have been some encouraging signs et le Nigeria threats it faces a landscape level recently: the creation of new protect‑ approach for their conservation is es‑ ed areas, renewed commitment on Andrew Dunn et Aaron Nicholas sential. WCS has been at the forefront behalf of national governments and of recent efforts to improve levels a number of newly discovered range • Resumé/Conclusion of cooperation and understanding extensions. Moreover corridors still ex‑ Le gorille de Cross River est between the contiguous Cross River ist that connect many of the core sites confronté à une incertitude, mais National Park in Nigeria and Taka‑ and migration does still occur despite loin d’être un avenir sombre. manda National Park in Cameroon. the tenuous nature of some of these Il y a eu, récemment, quelques A number of shared activities have corridors. With continued support and signes encourageants: la création already been completed such as joint a sustained effort there is real hope de nouvelles aires protégées, un surveys of the international boundary, that the long ‑term conservation pros‑ engagement renouvelé au nom joint planning workshops and joint pects for this critically endangered des gouvernements nationaux et training opportunities. With support species will gradually improve. d’un certain nombre d’extensions from the Arcus Foundation we plan to de l’aire de répartition récem‑ intensify our efforts to improve levels ment découverts. De plus il existe of transboundary conservation in the Acknowledgements encore des couloirs qui relient region during the coming year. beaucoup de ces sites centraux, We are grateful for the generous et la migration se produit encore support of the United States Fish and en dépit de la nature précaire de Wildlife Service, the Arcus Founda‑ certains de ces corridors. Avec un tion, WWF, KfW, Margot Marsh Bio‑ appui continu et un effort soutenu, diversity Foundation, Great Ape Trust il existe un vrai espoir que les pers‑ of Iowa, North Carolina Zoo, Colum‑ pectives de conservation à long bus Zoo Conservation Fund, Gorilla terme pour cette espèce en danger Organization, Taronga Foundation, critique d’extinction s’amélioreront Boise Zoo, Kolmarden Fundraising progressivement. Foundation, IUCN, Berggorilla and Regenwald Direkthilfe, Donald Mano‑ cherian, Quadra Foundation, Great There is real hope Ape Film Initiative (GAFI), John D. Andrew Dunn and Catherine T. MacArthur Founda‑ Wildlife Conservation Society that the long‑term tion, U.S. Agency for International [email protected] Development, Disney Foundation, 109 Marian Road conservation ProWildlife, WAZA and the National GPO Box 796 Geographic Conservation Trust. Calabar prospects Cross River State, Nigeria

for this species Aaron Nicholas Wildlife Conservation Society will gradually [email protected] Director, Takamanda‑Mone improve. Landscape Project P. O. Box 1308 c/o Limbe Botanical Gardens Limbe, SW Province Cameroon WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 9

Neil Madisson WAZA Project 9002 Addressing the trade in apes in Africa »

The illegal, commercial bushmeat trade is threatening many of the endangered species that live in the rainforests of west and central Africa.

New roads, mainly cut through the forest for the timber and mining in‑ dustries, enable hunters to penetrate into previously inaccessible areas. Many of these hunters are employed by ‘outsiders’ – urban ‑dwellers with the means to pay for guns and car‑ tridges – to poach the bigger animals for sale in the city markets. The trade is lucrative, illegal, and in danger of wiping out some of the most charis‑ matic species in the world.

A single gorilla carcass can fetch $60 © Bristol Zoo to the hunter. In a country where Rachel Hogan with the infant gorilla she raised. She has received the International Animal Welfare Award from IFAW, the Interational Fund for Animal Welfare, in October 2008. the average wage is less than $2 day, such a prize is highly valued.

Young animals, too small for the By providing a sanctuary By highlighting the threat bushmeat markets, are regarded for confiscated primates to Cameroonian wildlife as a potential source of extra funds. Infant apes can be sold as pets to the The number of raids by game guards The ape orphans at the sanctuary live unwary traveller. But young gorillas into areas known to house poach‑ in large, natural enclosures, based aren’t easy to keep alive, and often ers has steadily increased over the at the Mefou National Park (MNP), starve before they are found and con‑ last few years, as international and a secondary rainforest site. The fiscated by game guards. Chimpan‑ national pressure to address the groups of primates are looked after in zees are more robust and can often trade in endangered species has conditions that are as close as possi‑ cope with the traumatic conditions, mounted. The EU ‑funded ECOFAC ble to their free‑ranging forest home. but without experienced help they programme (Ecosystèmes Forestiers MNP is located only an hour from too will die before too long. d’Afrique Centrale/Forest Ecosystems Yaoundé, Cameroon’s capital city, in Central Africa) is working with which enables visitors to come to The work of Ape Action Africa (AAA) the Ministry of Forests and Wildlife see the animals and learn about the is to help in the fight against the il‑ (MINFOF) officers to prevent illegal animals and the issues affecting them. legal bushmeat trade. bushmeat sellers and hunters. They are helped in their job by the role of As well as their base in MNP, AAA the sanctuaries; AAA provide a place have a presence at the Mvog Betsi where young primates, confiscated Zoo in the centre of Yaoundé. The by the guards in their anti ‑bushmeat Zoo is the centre for the conserva‑ work, can be housed and raised. tion education team, who work with schoolchildren, nature clubs and One of the major challenges of AAA informal visitors to the Zoo, high‑ is to keep the young animals in as fit lighting the need to protect Cameroo‑ a state as possible – a difficult skill nian wildlife – before the forests are that the international zoo community emptied. knows only too well. Staff at AAA work closely with the veterinary and animal husbandry professionals at Bristol Zoo, so that local expertise is developed and the animals can be looked after as best as possible. 12 Addressing the trade in apes in Africa WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

By planning for the future release of sanctuary‑held animals

A long ‑term objective of AAA is to return as many of the animals that arrive at the sanctuary back to the wild. Some species will be easier to reintroduce than others. Forest gue‑ nons, mandrills and baboons are all potential for ‘quick’ release – if safe areas for reintroduction can be found. The apes will be more difficult to re- ‑establish in the wild. Work elsewhere in central Africa has demonstrated many of the problems that need to be overcome, such as the need to re‑ lease animals into areas where there are no other existing wild populations, or the importance of releasing only © Bristol Zoo one group into any territory (subse‑ Nkan, Mvie, Nyum and Shai; one of the three gorilla groups at Mefou National Park. quent releases into the same area have a high chance of conflict and mortality). Collaborations

AAA are working with the two other Bristol Conservation and Science Supporting the Government of primate sanctuaries in Cameroon to Foundation (BCSF), first working as Cameroon with its efforts to address plan for reintroduction of sanctuary‑ Bristol Zoo, have been a key strategic the illegal commercial bushmeat -held animals. In the first instance it partner with AAA since 1998. Start‑ trade lies at the very heart of the is intended that a group of chimpan‑ ing out as the Cameroon Wildlife Aid partners. The future is uncertain; zees will be released (and monitored), Fund (CWAF), AAA first focussed on can the sanctuary ‑held primates be but in time it is hoped that even some ameliorating the welfare conditions re ‑introduced successfully back into of the western lowland gorillas can be of the animals held at Mvog ‑Betsi the wild? Will the law enforcement successfully returned to the wild. Zoo. As the number of confiscated efforts reduce the take in endangered primates increased, the demand for species significantly? Can the zoo additional space became paramount. play an increasingly important role in By providing study conditions MINFOF granted AAA the manage‑ engaging visitors in the fight against to help African primates ment of the MNP in 2000, which the illegal trade? All these ques‑ then became the centre for housing tions remain unanswered, and the The issues surrounding reintroduction, a larger number of animals. Mvog‑ future for Cameroon’s primates looks and optimising the welfare of the ‑Betsi Zoo still retains a small number uncertain. What we can say is that sanctuary ‑held animals means that of primates, as well as a few other there is a strong, committed partner‑ scientific study is of huge importance species, and these form the basis for ship working hard to save some of to AAA and BCSF. Several research the conservation education activities. the world’s amazing wildlife from projects with the various groups of AAA education activities were given extinction. primates has already taken place over a significant boost when Givskud Zoo the last few years. With the potential committed significant resources, and collaboration of Yaoundé University, their long ‑standing support has been to help build local knowledge and ca‑ the main reason why the education pacity, the focus on scientific research programmes have been so successful. is set to increase in the forthcoming years. Studies such as individual and group behaviour, veterinary, nutrition and parasitology are all key to ensur‑ ing optimum health, behaviour and the chances of establishing sustain‑ able wild groups. WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 Addressing the trade in apes in Africa 13

Abstract/Conclusion Traiter le commerce des grands singes en Afrique Addressing the trade in apes in Africa. Neil Madisson The illegal, commercial bushmeat trade is threatening many of the • Resumé/Conclusion endangered species that live in the Traiter le commerce La planification pour la future rainforests of west and central Africa. des grands singes en Afrique libération d’animaux tenus The work of Ape Action Africa (AAA) Les échanges commerciaux illé‑ dans des sanctuaires is to help in the fight against the gaux de viande de brousse est en Un objectif à long terme de AAA illegal bushmeat trade. The work is train de menacer un grand nombre est de retourner à la nature le focussed on five main elements: d’espèces en danger d’extinction plus grand nombre d’animaux qui qui vivent dans les forêts tropica‑ arrivent au sanctuaire. By providing a sanctuary les humides de l’Afrique occiden‑ for confiscated primates tale et centrale. La préparation One of the major challenges is to Le travail de Ape Action Africa – des conditions d’études keep the young animals in as fit AAA (Action Grands Singes pour aider les primates d’Afrique a state as possible – a difficult skill d’Afrique) aide dans la lutte contre Des études telles que le compor‑ that the international zoo community le commerce illégal de viande de tement individuel et de groupe, knows only too well. Animals are kept brousse. Le travail est centré en la vétérinaire, la nutrition et la at two centres. cinq éléments principaux: parasitologie sont tous essentiels pour assurer une santé optimale, By highlighting the threat L’ offre d’un sanctuaire le comportement et les chances to Cameroonian wildlife pour les primates confisqués d’établir des groupes en liberté The largest Park is located only an L’un des principaux défis est de durables. hour from Yaoundé, Cameroon’s capi‑ garder les jeunes animaux dans tal city, which enables visitors to le meilleur état possible – une Collaborations come to see the animals and learn compétence difficile que la com‑ L’avenir des primates du Came‑ about the animals and the issues af‑ munauté internationale des zoos roun semble incertain. Ce que nous fecting them ne connaît que trop bien. Les ani‑ pouvons dire c’est qu’il existe un maux sont gardés dans deux partenariat fort, engagé, tra‑ By planning for the future release centres. vaillant durement pour sauver une of sanctuary‑held animals partie de la faune étonnante du A long ‑term objective of AAA is to La mise en évidence monde de l’extinction. return as many of the animals that ar‑ de la menace qui pèse rive at the sanctuary back to the wild. sur la faune du Cameroun Le plus grand parc est situé à By providing study conditions seulement une heure de Yaoundé, to help African primates la capitale du Cameroun, qui Studies such as individual and group permet aux visiteurs de venir voir Neil Maddison MBA behaviour, veterinary, nutrition and les animaux et d’apprendre sur les Head of Conservation parasitology are all key to ensuring animaux et les questions qui les Programmes optimum health, behaviour and the concernent. Bristol Conservation chances of establishing sustainable and Science Foundation wild groups. (An Operating Unit of the Bristol, Clifton and West Collaborations of England Zoological Society) The future for Cameroon’s primates Clifton looks uncertain. What we can say is Bristol BS8 3HA that there is a strong, committed UK partnership working hard to save some of the world’s amazing wildlife from extinction. 14 A gorilla researcher’s perspective on the Year of the Gorilla 2009 WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

Thomas Breuer A gorilla researcher’s perspective…

In 2009, the United National Envi‑ ronmental Program (UNEP), Con‑ vention on Migratory Species (CMS), UNEP/UNESCO Great Apes Survival Partnership (GRASP), and World Association of Zoos and Aquari‑ ums (WAZA) have joined hands to declare 2009 the ‘Year of the Gorilla’. This campaign aims to support in‑ ‑situ conservation efforts to ensure the long‑term survival of gorillas throughout their range.

But why is such a campaign necessary? What do we know about the threats © Thomas Breuer gorillas are facing and how can we mit‑ Children in a local primary school around Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park igate them? What does the future hold holding self made sitatungas mask for western gorillas? What research after a Club Ebobo session, the Mbeli and conservation activities are done at Taxonomy, status and threats Bai Study´s education components. Mbeli Bai, northern Congo? of western gorillas

In this article, I hope to provide a go‑ Based on genetic analysis, scientists In the early 1990s, conservationists rilla researcher’s perspective of how have identified that gorillas consist from the Wildlife Conservation Soci‑ long ‑term studies can help to ensure of two species and four subspecies. ety (WCS) and other organizations the survival of these critically endan‑ Eastern gorillas consist of two moun‑ discovered that the pristine forests gered apes. By outlining how different tain gorilla populations in the Virunga of Western Equatorial Africa were conservation approaches are beneficial Volcanoes region and in the Bwindi under threat from increased logging to gorilla conservation, I will describe Impenetrable National Park, Uganda, activities. Logging practices in Central to our zoo partners how their long‑ and of several Eastern Lowland gorilla Africa whether they are carried out as ‑term commitment to the Mbeli Bai populations in the eastern Democratic reduced impact logging (RIL) or not is Gorilla Study has helped, to not only Republic of Congo. Western gorilla often accompanied by illegal activities, provide new insights into the natural species consist of a small, isolated such as poaching of protected species, history of this elusive species, but also population of Cross River gorillas in even in concessions that hold a Forest how our partners’ contributions make the Nigeria/Cameroon region and Steward Council (FSC) certification. In a positive difference to the species’ the western lowland gorilla. Western this case, gorillas are no exception— future. Additionally, these partnerships lowland gorillas make up the largest despite the fact that gorillas are reinforce successful captive gorilla numbers of gorillas, with approxi‑ protected by national laws through‑ management and encourage other mately 100,000–200,000 gorillas in out their range, they are often the zoos to find in ‑situ partner projects the range states of Cameroon, Central target of poachers. Increased logging they can support. Such support will African Republic, Gabon, Republic of activities have created a road network certainly stretch beyond this Year of Congo, Equatorial Guinea and a small throughout these remote forests and the Gorilla. Conservation challenges population in the Kabinda region of hence easy access for poachers. Fur‑ protecting gorillas throughout their Angola. Western gorillas are mega‑ thermore there has been an immense range will extend beyond 2009, and it ‑charismatic mammals with an im‑ influx of people to the logging camps is therefore crucial that we establish portant flagship role for conservation and towns with an ever increasing de‑ sustainable long ‑term support. projects throughout Central African mand for bushmeat, including gorillas. forests. The current financial crisis has led to the suspension of many staff, however their demand for bushmeat remains and will further create pressure on the wildlife. Furthermore the impact of harvesting important gorilla fruit spe‑ cies, which has become more com‑ mon in areas where mahogany and other valuable timber species have become rare, is currently unknown. WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 A gorilla researcher’s perspective on the Year of the Gorilla 2009 15

…on the Year of the Gorilla 2009 »

Law enforcement practices are notoriously insufficient to adequately protect wildlife in northern Congo. Even the protected areas that har‑ bour the highest numbers of gorillas are substantially understaffed (cur‑ rently 12 Ecoguards per 4,200 km2 in NNNP) and anti poaching patrols are insufficient to fully protect gorillas throughout the zone. In addition, another threat to the population has recently emerged: western gorilla populations in north ‑eastern Gabon and western part of the Republic of Congo have experienced tremendous declines due to Ebola outbreaks. © Thomas Breuer The combined effect of commercial Blackback Scout looking at observers during a feeding visit to Mbeli Bai. hunting for bushmeat, potential loss of habitat and the outbreak of Why do western disease such as Ebola hemorrhagic and mountain gorillas differ? fever have caused a sharp decline in several western gorilla populations, Our current data on gorilla life histo‑ In ‑situ study is imperative to gather leading to their reclassification by ries is derived predominantly from a more comprehensive knowledge the IUCN as Critically Endangered. one high ‑altitude mountain gorilla base of western gorilla biology, This reclassification was based on population and long ‑term study site particularly for scenarios of popula‑ a projected population decline. The (Karisoke Research Centre) located at tion growth and life history patterns. discovery in 2008 of more than the extreme range of gorilla distribu‑ In contrast with mountain gorillas, 100,000 gorillas in northern Congo tion in the Virunga Volcanoes – with western gorillas, which account for does not, perhaps counter ‑intuitively, preliminary data available on Grau‑ over 90% of all gorillas in the wild and affect this assessment, but it does er’s gorillas. However, western gorilla nearly all captive populations, are provide both a greater opportunity habitat differs from that of mountain extremely difficult to study; dense for conservation and a challenge gorillas. In lowland forests, terrestrial forest vegetation comprises much for the prevention of Ebola spread, herbaceous vegetation occurs at of their habitat. Currently, only two which is assumed to happen pre‑ lower densities and is more patchily western gorilla groups are fully habit‑ dominantly through ape ‑ape disease distributed. Western gorillas are more uated (i.e. meaning that they can be transmission in areas where gorillas frugivorous than mountain gorillas. followed by researchers every day). occur at high density. Furthermore, Fruiting trees are more abundant, but The demographic data from these these study shows that the majority fruit availability varies largely each two groups is insufficient for robust of gorillas occur outside protected season. Given such vast ecological modelling of the population dynam‑ areas and therefore need to improve differences in the habitats of western ics of western gorillas in general. the law enforcement in the logging and mountain gorillas, it is hazardous Furthermore, the slow reproductive concessions. to extrapolate information from one rate of gorillas makes the collection species to the other. of life ‑history data a time ‑consuming Nevertheless we urgently need process, demanding a long‑term critical life history data on this Differences in resource availability research investment. An evaluation largely unstudied great ape species. combined with reduced folivory of how recovery of declining popula‑ Information gained from long‑term could have direct effects on western tions can be brought about is a clear studies on the population dynamics gorilla development and mortality, priority. Bais, such as Mbeli Bai, and demography of western gorillas leading to slower life histories (and provide unique opportunities for the is critical for assessing the vulner‑ in particular to a later weaning age) study of wild gorillas due to their vis‑ ability of their populations to specific and probably higher infant mortal‑ ibility and the fact that many gorillas threats, such as logging and illegal ity – important life history milestones frequently visit them. hunting, and for predicting their abil‑ that can potentially affect a popula‑ ity to recover from decline. tion’s growth rate. 16 A gorilla researcher’s perspective on the Year of the Gorilla 2009 WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

Mbeli Bai – Nouabalé‑Ndoki National Park

Luckily, due to increased conserva‑ tion activities in Western Equatorial Africa, forest clearings – called “bais” in the local dialect – were discov‑ ered. Bais are focal points in the rain forest that attract large numbers of many different mammals due to their mineral rich soil, plants, and clay that appear to be of particular nutritional importance to these species. Western gorillas make regular use of swampy clearings for food, thus providing a unique opportunity to observe and monitor the population status © Thomas Breuer in this region. Mbeli Bai is a large Silverback George and his harem leaving the Mbeli Bai clearing – this group has been 13 ha swampy forest clearing in the monitored since 1995: in front is female south -west region of the Nouabalé- Leah who has been the first wild gorilla -Ndoki National Park (NNNP), cover‑ observed using a tool. ing 4,200 km², Republic of Congo. The overall goal of the Mbeli Bai Study (MBS) is to ensure the long‑ The daily life ‑term protection of gorillas and other of a researcher at Mbeli Bai forest mammals. We are combining applied research on intact gorilla Since the 1990s, WCS has been Daily research at a forest clearing is population, poaching deterrence, working in the north of the Republic very different from following a habit‑ capacity ‑building and conservation Congo, and in 1993, together with uated gorilla group within the forest. education. The MBS is part of the the Ministry of Forest Economy and We do not aim to follow the groups Nouabalé-Ndoki Project, a collabo‑ Environment, was responsible for into the forest, as we want to ensure ration between WCS ‑Congo (www. the creation of the NNNP. Together that their lives remain entirely undis‑ wcs ‑congo.org) and the Government with the neighbouring Dzanga -Ndoki turbed. Usually, we simply wait for of Congo, which strives to protect National Park in Central African Re‑ the animals to approach the clearing, and conserve the wildlife and habitats public and the Lobéké National Park at which time we observe them with within and around the NNNP through in Cameroon. NNNP forms the core the help of binoculars and telescopes. anti ‑poaching, research, monitoring, protected zone of the Sangha Trina‑ One might say that this is an easy job. education and ecotourism activities. tional Landscape, which harbours one However, our research demands infi‑ It maintains strong links with the two of the largest great ape population in nite patience. It generally takes new local communities living around the Africa. The NNNP, with its low levels observers at least three months to NNNP through a participatory ap‑ of disturbance, represents one of learn each gorilla’s identity. Currently, proach to conservation. the last remaining intact forest (with we have around 130 different gorillas no history of logging) in the Congo in the visiting population residing in Basin. The NNNP is also an important 14 social groups and 10 solitary males. stronghold for other endangered It often takes many hours and, oc‑ forest mammals, such as forest casionally, even days, before gorillas elephants, central chimpanzees and visit the clearing, but we must remain bongos to name a few. Saving this continuously alert and vigilant. landscape to ensure the survival of the great apes – our closest cousins – is an urgent global conservation priority. WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 A gorilla researcher’s perspective on the Year of the Gorilla 2009 17

Sometimes several different groups enter the bai simultaneously, along with all the other mammals who might happen to be visiting the clear‑ ing (e.g. forest elephants, sitatun‑ gas, buffaloes, Congo clawless otter, spotted ‑necked otters and black ‑and‑ ‑white colobus monkeys), demanding our full attention for data collection. Generally, at least two observers sit on the 9m ‑high platform (called a mirador) at the edge of the forest clearing during daylight hours. We are present at the bai for approximately 10 hours every day, which provides us with detailed data to further our understanding of the ecological and social factors that determine gorilla bai visiting patterns. This research is Silverbacks of Mbeli Bai – each gorilla has his own face and story. complemented by monthly monitor‑ Research benefits © Thomas Breuer ing of more than 480 fruiting trees in and media attention the study site. Analyses of bai visita‑ tion and grouping patterns of other Forest clearings provide unique While data from these habituated large mammals, such as elephants, opportunities to accumulate groups can provide us detailed infor‑ provide important information on the conservation ‑relevant demographic mation on the daily activities, ranging role of bais in determining large‑scale data of mammals with slow life histo‑ patterns, and social behaviours of associations and population structure ries, and allow for the documentation western gorillas, there is still a lack of these species. Only rarely do we of the behaviour of charismatic goril‑ of knowledge on species/population‑ enter into the swampy clearing to get las, raising media attention and public -specific group dynamics, life -history gorilla dung samples. These samples support for conservation. patterns (e.g. mortality) and other are analyzed for parasite load by the important demographic parameters. WCS Global Health Program. Ad‑ Over the past few years, our theories Through monitoring individually ditionally the MBS is contributing on western gorilla social structure identifiable animals, Mbeli Bai has towards a great ape monitoring and and socio ‑ecology have been greatly provided major and rare insights into surveillance program in the NNNP altered due to data collected from the social organization and behavior through visual health observations. forest clearing observation, and of this elusive species. In total we results from the MBS has played have monitored more than 350 go‑ a large role in our collective knowl‑ rillas since our monitoring efforts edge of the species. We now have started in February 1995. We have a greater understanding of the been able to determine that, in western gorilla, and can compare contrast to up to 50% of mountain “We have our knowledge with long ‑term data gorilla groups being multi‑male, collection on mountain gorillas from western gorillas almost exclusively monitored more the Karisoke research centre in the contain only one fully adult silver‑ Virunga Volcanoes. Many astounding back. In contrary to adult males, adult than 350 gorillas behavioural observations have been females do not range on their own. reported, including twin births, silver‑ Similar to mountain gorillas, female since February back splash displays, the first photo‑ western gorillas show both natal and graphed ventro‑ventral copulation secondary transfer and also involun‑ 1995…” in free-ranging gorillas and the first tary transfer (changes between social ever observation of tool use in free‑ groups). Involuntary transfer happens -ranging gorillas. These findings have when a group disintegrates after the attracted significant international presumed death of the harem holder. media attention. Due to the absence of multi‑male groups, it is not surprising to find higher rates of group disintegrations in western gorillas. 18 A gorilla researcher’s perspective on the Year of the Gorilla 2009 WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

Further, our monitoring provides baseline life history data (birth rates, mortality rates, inter ‑birth intervals, age at first parturition) of an intact gorilla population that can be used to model its population dynamics. Together with higher maternal invest‑ ment due to increased unstable food availability, higher predation risk by leopards, and more arboreality, this will likely lead to higher infant mortal‑ ity and slower physical maturation. Preliminary data from Mbeli Bai demonstrate that in this western go‑ rilla population, infants are weaned at a later age (four years, compared to three years in mountain gorillas), have higher infant mortality (43% to age three compared to mountain gorillas (27.1%); and may have longer inter ‑birth intervals. The slower physi‑ cal maturation of western gorillas could have serious consequences for social structure, mortality patterns and, particularly, for population growth rates that will affect recovery Capacity building Conservation education from population crashes and pros‑ and Club Ebobo pects of survival for this critically The MBS strives toward securing the endangered great ape species. current and future wildlife popula‑ The project also trains educators to tions by building capacity in the promote wildlife conservation and country, and instilling in the Congo‑ the role of the NNNP, in particular Other research benefits lese people a reverence for and ap‑ through the conservation education preciation of their invaluable wildlife program “Club Ebobo” (Ebobo is the In addition to baseline population heritage. We employ Congolese name for gorilla in the local language). data, the Mbeli Bai Study has been nationals as research assistants with Conservation education can play expanding its research into the sur‑ the aim to increase their capacity in a vital role in changing local attitudes rounding forest and has conducted all areas of research methodology toward the value of wildlife, and is a study to determine the ecological and natural resource monitoring. an important long ‑term strategy to factors that potentially affect western We train Congolese research assist‑ mitigate the threats that wildlife and gorilla distribution and density. Ob‑ ants in data collection, analysis, and rainforests are facing in northern Con‑ servations from Mbeli Bai have also presentation of results. We support go. The MBS, as part of the Nouabalé- contributed to our understanding of the participation of our researchers at -Ndoki Project, currently runs a Club Ebola transmission between social training workshops, and work closely Ebobo in local schools around the groups. Observations of simultane‑ with them to improve their academic NNNP with the aim to increase ous use of fruiting trees by various and language skills so that they can knowledge of wildlife and forests, and social groups, as well as observations obtain a higher degree at a European change children’s attitudes to reflect from remote video camera (e.g. feed‑ or American university. a respect for nature and their wildlife ing on fruit remains), suggest that heritage. Club Ebobo activities are ape‑to ‑ape transmission can act as an designed to encourage creativity amplifier of Ebola outbreaks. among students, rather then using the learning ‑by ‑rote system that is popular in Congo schools. Specifically, Club Ebobo teaches students about the fascinating fauna and flora of the region’s ecosystem, instilling in them an appreciation and pride in the biodi‑ versity that exists in their region. WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 A gorilla researcher’s perspective on the Year of the Gorilla 2009 19

The potential for Ecotourism Researchers’ presence as an early warning system Currently, there are less than a hand‑ ful of habituated western gorilla A permanent research presence at groups, and it has taken years to get the bai provides an effective deter‑ to the point where western gorillas rent to poaching and an important can be followed and observed daily; early ‑warning system for population thus we must seriously, and with perturbations, due to its strategic great circumspection, investigate the location. Mbeli Bai was the site of potential of ecotourism in Western frequent elephant poaching, prior Equatorial Africa. It takes many to the creation of NNNP in 1993. years and a large amount of financial Since the Park’s inception and the investment (e.g. salary of trackers, later initiation of the MBS, poach‑ food, transport) before tourists can ing levels in and around the bai have feasibly visit a western gorilla group. ceased entirely for the last 15 years. Western gorillas have proven to be Through researchers the MBS aims much more difficult to habituate and, to continue to provide an effective given their one ‑male social system deterrent to poaching around Mbeli and higher levels of group disintegra‑ Bai. Our presence in the study area tion, gorilla viewing tourism will halt provides immediate protection of the whenever a leading silverback dies. south -west region of the NNNP. We This is in vast contrast to the multi‑ work closely together with the park © Thomas Breuer ‑male mountain gorilla groups that staff and are in frequent contact in In the name of Mbeli Bai gorillas, we want have been followed over decades and case of any sign of illegal activities. to thank all our long‑term donors for their continuous support for which the group’s integrity most The researchers’ presence at two bais often remains continuous. (10 km north and south of Mbeli Bai) where we start monitoring in 2009 WCS and the Nouabalé-Ndoki Project will expand the study area and help Our hope is that students will take an facilitate ecotourism and media visits to act as an early warning system interest in promoting the conserva‑ to Mbeli Bai and publicize our find‑ for illegal human activities in the tion and research activities under‑ ings to a broad national and inter‑ western part of the NNNP. We are taken within the NNNP, to a popula‑ national audience to attract donor also employing several BaNgombe tion that would otherwise have very support for conservation activities in pygmies from the local populations little contact with the protected area. the NNNP. Our research findings on as camp staff – some of whom previ‑ By increasing younger generations’ the seasonal activity of gorillas have ously maintained a livelihood through knowledge about gorillas, and by informed tourist activities of the best poaching. It is anticipated that the changing combative or indifferent time to visit a bai. Furthermore we other bai studies will result in the em‑ attitudes toward nature, we hope to have provided guides of the Mbeli ployment of additional staff this year discourage the likelihood of the con‑ Bai gorillas, sitatungas and other and the study area will be expanded, tinuation of future illegal bushmeat mammals and we work closely the therefore enlarging direct habitat trade. After its initiation in 1998 we Park’s ecotourism team. However, protection. have expanded our activities and now we must emphasize the realities of reach around 800 school children (in ecotourism at Mbeli Bai. We can only both primary and secondary schools) host up to eight visitors and must living around the park and working maintain limits on visits to the bai, as closely together with other partners increased human disturbance would to establish a school curriculum for severely disrupt the lives of all of the environmental education. animals that frequent the clearing. 20 A gorilla researcher’s perspective on the Year of the Gorilla 2009 WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

Acknowledgements Conclusion Une perspective d’un chercheur de gorille sur First of all thanks to my research as‑ The importance of long‑term stud‑ l’Année du Gorille 2009 sistants, trackers and camp staff for ies and the opportunities for land‑ their dedication and patience in data scape wide conservation of western Thomas Breuer collection and support. I would like gorillas in northern Congo to thank the Congolese Ministry of • Conclusion Forest Economy and the Department The rainforests of northern Congo L’importance des études à long of Scientific Research and Technol‑ provide enormous opportunities for terme et les possibilités d’une ogy for permission to work in the conservation. The human population conservation ample du paysage Park. Without the support of WCS, density is relatively low, and there are des gorilles de l’ouest au nord du especially all the personnel of the collaborative trinational approaches Congo. Nouabalé-Ndoki Project, we would to conservation techniques, such as Les forêts tropicales du nord not have been able to fully focus on Ecoguard missions and ecotourism du Congo apportent d’énormes our conservation activities. Particular activities. These endeavours are coor‑ opportunités pour la conserva‑ thanks go to Paul Telfer and Hannah dinated together with the neighbour‑ tion. La densité de la population Thomas for their continuous support, ing protected areas in Cameroon and humaine est relativement basse, administrative and logistical assist‑ Central African Republic. However, et il existe des approches de ance, and fruitful discussions. We also these ecosystems are under serious collaboration tri ‑nationale sur des thank the WCS ‑Congo Brazzaville threat due to the insufficient law techniques de conservation, tels office, for administrative support enforcement, increasing logging que les missions Ecoguard et les throughout the year and Dos San‑ activities and emerging diseases, activités d’écotourisme. Ces ef‑ tos Domingos, the conservator of such as Ebola. But there is still hope. forts sont coordonnés ensembles the Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park Thanks to the support of long ‑term avec les aires protégées voisines for administrative assistance and funders of the Mbeli Bai Study, this du Cameroun et de la République continuous support of our activities. little project has grown into one of Centrale Africaine. Toutefois, ces And, last but not least, I would like to the leading gorilla conservation stud‑ écosystèmes sont gravement thank our long ‑term funders, Brevard ies in the region. I strongly encourage menacés en raison de l’absence Zoo, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, other scientists and conservation d’application de la loi, l’augmen‑ Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, managers to consider the valuable tation des activités d’exploitation Sea World & Busch Gardens Conser‑ and time-effective conservation- forestière et les maladies émer‑ vation Fund, Toronto Zoo, Woodland ‑related research that can be con‑ gentes, telles que l’ Ebola. Mais il Park Zoo and WCS. More recently ducted at forest clearings, as well as ya encore de l’espoir. Grâce au sou‑ other zoos have begun supporting the positive influence a presence at tien des bailleurs de fonds à long our study: We are grateful to Disney these clearings can have on conserva‑ terme de l’étude Mbeli Bai, ce petit Worldwide Conservation Fund, Cleve‑ tion activities. projet est devenu l’un des princi‑ land Metroparks Zoo, Little Rock Zoo, pales études de conservation des Jacksonville Zoo, and Knoxville Zoo. gorilles dans la région. J’encourage Thanks to Erin Archuleta, Fiona Mai‑ vivement d’autres scientifiques et sels, Paul Telfer and Hannah Thomas les gestionnaires de conservation for useful comments on an earlier de considérer la recherche de version of this manuscript. valeur et temps-efficace liée à la conservation qui peut se réaliser dans les clairières de forêts, ainsi que l’influence positive qu’une pré‑ sence dans ces clairières peut avoir sur les activités de conservation. WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 A gorilla researcher’s perspective on the Year of the Gorilla 2009 21

Thomas Breuer Wildlife Conservation Society – Congo Program [email protected] or [email protected] Mbeli Bai Study Nouabalé-Ndoki Project BP 14537 Brazzaville Republic of Congo www.wcs ‑congo.org

Selected literature from the Mbeli Bai Study (former and current staff in bold)

• BREUER, T., BREUER‑ • FISHLOCK, V., LEE, P. C. & BREU‑ • Parnell, R. J. & Buchanan ‑Smith, H. ‑NDOUNDOU HOCKEMBA, M., ER, T. (2008) Quantifying forest (2001) An unusual social display by Olejnizcak, C., Parnell, R. J. & elephant social structure in Central gorillas. Nature, 412: 294 Stokes, E. J. (2009) Physical matu‑ African bai environments. Pachy‑ • Robbins, M. M., Bermejo, M., Cipol‑ ration, life history classes and age derm, 44: 17–26. letta, C., Magliocca, F., Parnell, R. J. estimates of free‑ranging western • Nowell, A. A. & Fletcher, A. W. & Stokes. E. (2004) Social structure gorillas at Mbeli Bai, Republic of (2006) Food transfer in immature and life‑history patterns in west‑ Congo. American Journal of Prima‑ wild western lowland gorillas (Go‑ ern gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla). tology, 71 (2): 106–119. rilla gorilla gorilla). Primates 47 (4): American Journal of Primatolology • BREUER, T. & NDOUNDOU HOCK‑ 294–299. 64: 145–159 EMBA, M. (2008) Fatal interaction • Nowell, A. A. & Fletcher, A. W. • Stokes, E. J. (2004) Within ‑group between two male Sitatungas (2008) The development of feeding relationships between adult female (Tragelaphus spekei gratus) at Mbeli behaviour in wild western lowland and between adult females and Bai, northern Congo. African Journal gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla). Be‑ adult males. American Journal of of Ecology, 46: 110–112. haviour 145: 171–193. Primatology 64, 233–246. • BREUER, T., ROBBINS, M. M., BOE‑ • Nowell, A. A. & Fletcher, A. W. • Stokes, E. J., Parnell, R. J. & Ole‑ SCH, C. (2007) Using photogram‑ (2007) Development of independ‑ jniczak, C. (2003). Female dispersal metry and color scoring to assess ence from the mother in Gorilla patterns and reproductive success sexual dimorphism in wild western gorilla gorilla. International Journal in wild western lowland gorillas (Go‑ gorillas. American Journal of Physi‑ of Primatology 28: 441–455 rilla gorilla gorilla). Behavioural Ecol‑ cal Anthropology, 134: 369–382. • Parnell, R. J. (2001) Hand prefer‑ ogy and Sociobiology. 54: 329–339. • BREUER, T. & NDOUNDOU HOCK‑ ence for food processing in wild • Walsh, P., Breuer, T., Sanz, C., MOR‑ EMBA, M. (2007) Forest elephant western lowland gorillas (Gorilla GAN, D., & Doran -Sheehy, D. (2007) dung decay in Ndoki forest, north‑ gorilla gorilla). J Comp Psychol. 115 Potential for Ebola transmission ern Congo. Pachyderm, 43: 43–51. (4): 365–375. between gorilla and chimpanzee • BREUER, T., NDOUNDOU HOCK‑ • Parnell, R. J. (2002) Group size and social groups. American Naturalist EMBA, M. & FISHLOCK, V. (2005) structure in western lowland gorillas 169 (5): 684–689 First observation of tool use in wild (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) at Mbeli Bai, gorillas. PLoS Biol, 3 (11): e380. Republic of Congo. American Jour‑ nal of Primatology, 56: 193–206 22 Djeke Gorilla Project in Nouabalé ‑Ndoki National Park, Republic of Congo WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

Florence Perroux WAZA Project 8012 Djeke Gorilla Project in Nouabalé‑Ndoki… Creating an educational trail for eco‑tourists

The Congo Basin region is the second largest area of dense, humid, tropi‑ cal forest after the Amazon. It plays a vital role in climate stability and the hydric balance of central Africa. It is home to 11,000 different plant spe‑ cies and nearly 300 mammal species, which include three well ‑known ape species: Chimpanzee, bonobo and gorilla.

Republic of Congo rainforests are part of the Congo basin and provide a habitat for various rare and endan‑ © Remy Le Dauphin gered mammals such as forest ele‑ Mondika Camp for visitors in Djeke. phants, western lowland gorillas, and A major area chimpanzees. All of these animals are of conservation interest classified on the IUCN Red List. The Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park Fifty full -time staff, including five In addition, these forests represent (NNNP) was created in 1993 by technicians from the Ministry of an important source of food and the Congolese government to fully Forestry Economy, work daily for shelter for the region’s population, protect a specific area from human the conservation program. All of but their natural resources (crude oil, encroachment. 4,000 square meters them are locals which is key for any natural gas, timber, ores, and gold) of forest (which were about to be successful conservation program. are being widely exploited. The ex‑ commercially exploited for wood ex‑ Involving natives is essential to en‑ pansion of human encroachment traction) were included in this protec‑ sure a long ‑term conservation action through urbanization, logging, min‑ tion scheme. Located in the Sangha and help raising awareness among ing, poaching and population growth Trinational Zone (a trans ‑boundary the population. Staff activities are increases the pressure on wildlife and forest complex consisting of three divided into several different fields, threatens its’ long ‑term survival. contiguous national parks: Lobeke in including anti ‑poaching and monitor‑ Cameroon, Dzanga -Ndoki in Central ing, research, tourism and education. African Republic and Nouabalé- -Ndoki in the Republic of Congo), the Many remarkable animals species aim is to protect wildlife and habi‑ inhabit the National Park such as tats thanks to a strong partnership large ungulates (elephants, bongo between the Congolese Ministry of antelopes, forest buffalos, sita‑ Forest Economy (MEF) and WCS. In tungas), about ten diurnal primate fact, since the early 90’s, the WCS has species (gorillas and chimpanzees, been working with the government, De Brazza’s monkeys and colobus), the local communities and several small carnivores (African golden cats, partners from the private sector to spotted ‑necked and Congo clawless help conserve biodiversity in Congo. otters, giant otter shrew) and more than 300 birds species. As a result of the high level of protection granted to this area, the Nouabalé-Ndoki area remains com‑ pletely free of any human habitation and activity. A team of eco ‑guards ensure the security of the National Park under the authority of a project director from WCS ‑Congo and a MEF park warden. They are both in charge of supervising the program manage‑ ment. WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 Djeke Gorilla Project in Nouabalé ‑Ndoki National Park, Republic of Congo 23

…National Park, Republic of Congo

Ecotourism An ecological trail as a conservation tool for eco‑tourists

Taking into account the current public In 2008, La Palmyre Zoo assisted The trail includes 25 interpretation interest in wildlife diversity (espe‑ in creating an educational trail for points which highlight about twenty cially ape presence), an ecotourism eco ‑tourists visiting Mondika site. vegetal species considered important programme focusing on gorilla view‑ The Djeke Project leadership was in gorilla day life. Specific attention ing was established by the National convinced that giving eco ‑tourists is paid to dietary topics. Western Park in 2001. some information about gorilla lowland gorillas’ feeding patterns are lifestyle and habitat as well as their linked to the botanical composition It was first set up at Mbeli Bai which seasonal diet, would enhance interest of Central Africa forests and for‑ is a natural clearing and highly ap‑ in Kingo’s group viewing and increase est structure has consequences on preciated by western lowland gorillas interest by the public. People could gorilla home range extent and diet. that come to feed on the aquatic simultaneously learn more about the For example, the western lowland vegetation. Visitors have the oppor‑ entire ecosystem, including wildlife gorilla’s diet is much more varied tunity to observe habituated gorillas and local community’s habits. and includes more fruit than that of from a raised platform used by the mountain gorillas, which are mostly research team who are constantly A French student spent three months herbivorous because they live at present on site. on site and began a bibliographic higher elevations where fruit is more research about gorilla’s lifestyle and scarce. A second viewing site has recently feeding habits. The purpose was to been added to the ecotourism activi‑ determine the types of foods usu‑ Visitors are guided along the trail ties. It is known as the Djeke Triangle, ally eaten by gorillas, to collect data by eco ‑guards whose mission is to and is located between the Mondika about each kind of specific food explain the gorillas’ dietary vegeta‑ River, Bomassa Village and the west‑ item and then elaborate on these tion characteristics (fruit description, ern border of the NNNP. Here, visitors at different interpretation points fructification season, development can track and observe one of the depending on the plant species found and distribution in the forest). They only fully habituated group of wild along the path. Each interpretative also describe how the vegetation is western lowland gorillas. The group point is portrayed by a panel with used by the animals (i.e. which part of is called Kingo’s group and was given the name of the species found there the tree/fruit is preferably eaten, dur‑ its’ name in honour of the group’s sil‑ (common name, scientific name and ing which season, and how it helps verback named Kingo. “Kingo ya bole” family) and describes how the vari‑ in treating disease or plays a role in in Ba’aka language means “he who ous vegetative species are eaten by animals’ health). has a loud voice”. This magnificent gorilla groups ranging on Mondika silverback indeed has a distinctive site. The eco ‑guard’s explanations Panels help identify tree species cry, which helped trackers locate the allow visitors to understand how each along the trail. If visitors are on site group during the habituation process. plant species is used by gorillas, other during the non - fructification season, animals and/or humans. the wardens can use photos to help The habituation process wasn’t show what various fruit looks like. simple. Forest vegetation is thick Many issues were to be taken into ac‑ and swampy, which makes follow‑ count before designing the trail such The path was designed specifically to ing tracks a difficult task. In addition, as length of the route, distance from distinguish between two main phases gorillas are shy animals and quite the base camp, distance between in western lowland gorilla diet: The fearful of humans. It took four years interpretation points and terrain rainy season (during which ripe fruits and thousands of observation hours difficulty. In order to be efficiently are widely available and preferably by the researchers to successfully ac‑ and effortlessly used by visitors, the eaten by the animals) and the dry custom Kingo’s group to the presence total trail length has been limited to season (when fruit becomes scarce). of human beings! All this time spent 1.3 kilometres. During the dry season, the gorilla diet in the presence of wild gorillas has becomes more herbivorous. In the allowed researchers to better under‑ interim between the dry and rainy stand the species ecological and so‑ periods, the diet is mixed. Available cial structures. Currently, a maximum fruit is eaten first and the portions of four visitors at a time can visit the of herbaceous plants are gradually group after more than an hour walk increased. from the Djeke Project base camp located at Mondika. This makes the outing a truly unique experience. 24 Djeke Gorilla Project in Nouabalé ‑Ndoki National Park, Republic of Congo WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

Species highlighted and concepts

Along the path, eco ‑guards lay emphasis on several vegetal species, describing each of them and broach‑ ing different issues relating to gorillas and their habitat.

Visitors discover that Bemba (Gilber‑ tiodendron dewevrei) leaves are eaten throughout the year by gorillas, while Bemba seeds are eaten exclusively during the fruit season in June, July and August, when they are produced in large quantities.

Gorillas also eat termites (Cubi‑ © Remy Le Dauphin © Remy Le Dauphin termes termites) by breaking down Members of Kingo’s group in Djeke. Trackers Patrice and Dona with Kingo. the strong termite mound with their powerful gorilla hands. Insects make up for the lack of proteins during the rainy season, as fruit doesn’t satisfy Visitors can also learn some interest‑ Motunga hardwood (Polyalthia sua‑ the gorilla’s complete nutritional ing facts about gorilla’s social behav‑ veolens) is known to be resistant to needs. iour. Observing gorillas when they insects and therefore is widely sought are consuming one of their favourite for carpentry and pole construction. Fruit is either eaten in trees or on foods like Mobei (Anonidium manii), Logging is one of the main threats the ground and gorillas wait until the allows researchers to understand the affecting tropical forests and – as fruit is entirely ripe before consum‑ group hierarchy. The dominant male a consequence – forest wildlife. ing it. Bambu (Gambeya lacourtiana) is the first to feed, followed by his fruit is one of the favourites eaten by females and the youngsters feed last. Additional issues are tackled by the gorillas and they are willing to go to Female hierarchy is usually deter‑ eco ‑guards at each interpretation great lengths to find it. The Bambu is mined by their order of acquisition. point. Various levels of the forest, spread unevenly on Mondika site and soil composition, gorilla nest build‑ gorillas will walk several kilometres to Other plant species help visitors bet‑ ing technique, photosynthesis and locate it. Bambu bark is also used in ter understand how rainforests oper‑ environmental adaptations, animals’ pygmy traditional medicine for treat‑ ate and why they are highly coveted self ‑medication, herbivorous diet spe‑ ing pregnant women and avoiding by logging companies. cificity and consumption of aquatic miscarriage. This fact gives eco‑ plants in swampy areas are discussed ‑guards the opportunity to talk about Mobangui lianas (Strychnos sp.), and explained. rainforest’s rich pharmacopoeia and which produce large yellow fruit point out its’ added importance for mainly eaten by big animals such as medical research. elephants and gorillas, are a good example of competition for light. In order to reach daylight above the canopy, lianas need to lean against species that grow around them. They can reach 200 metres length and grow throughout tropical forests. Epiphytes have developed a differ‑ ent strategy: They grow towards the ground as they are born elevated on other plants. WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 Djeke Gorilla Project in Nouabalé ‑Ndoki National Park, Republic of Congo 25

Habitat specificity Abstract/Conclusion Le projet Gorilla Djeke The trail crosses three different habi‑ au Parc National tats, including a primary forest mainly The tropical forests of Congo are part Nouabalé‑Ndoki, containing “Bemba” trees which are of the Congo Basin region which is République du Congo 30 to 45 metres high, a transition for‑ the second largest bloc of dense hu‑ Création d’un parcours est composed of marantacea and lia‑ mid tropical forest after the Amazon. didactique pour les nas (a very dark and closed environ‑ They provide a habitat for some rare éco‑touristes ment highly appreciated by gorillas and endangered large mammals such because it offers effective protection as forest elephant, western lowland Florence Perroux against intruders), and a small mixed gorilla, chimpanzee, bongo antelope, forest (more open) which consists forest buffalo and others. They also • Resumé/Conclusion of trees with different heights. Their constitute an essential source of food Les forêts tropicales du Congo presence is used to explain the com‑ and shelter for the region’s popula‑ font partie de la région du bassin position of rainforests, as well as how tion, and their natural resources du Congo qui est le deuxième these different habitats are used by (crude oil, timber, minerals) are plus grand bloc de forêt tropicale gorillas. widely exploited. The expand of the dense humide après l’Amazonie. human encroachment through urban‑ Elles fournissent un habitat pour This journey immerses visitors in the isation, logging, poaching and popu‑ quelques grands mammifères heart of the rainforest, allowing them lation growth increases the pressure rares et en danger tels que les to discover its’ incredible diversity on wildlife and threatens its longterm éléphants de forêt, le gorille de and how gorillas use its’ natural re‑ survival. The use of food sources var‑ l’ouest de plaines basses, le chim‑ sources depending on fruit availabil‑ ies throughout the year and a spe‑ panzé, l’antilope bongo, le buffle ity or maturity. cial ecological trail for eco ‑tourists de forêt et d’autres. Ils constituent takes account of that and explains également une source essentielle It is obvious that eco ‑tourists visit‑ gorilla behaviour. Trained eco‑guards de nourriture et d’abris pour la ing Mondika site are most eager to explain the different species, the diet population de la région, et leur see wild gorillas. Such an experience and behaviour of the gorillas. This ressources naturelles (pétrole, bois, is unique and particularly intense proved to be very important because minéraux) sont largement exploi‑ for the visitor, but the length of the of the limited observation time for tés. L’expansion de l’empiètement observation time (limited to one hour visitors, so that not any discomfort is de l’homme par le biais de l’urba‑ in order to minimize the discomfort caused for the gorillas. nisation, l’exploitation forestière, of Kingo’s group), doesn’t allow le braconnage et la croissance people to truly understand the daily sources: démographique accroît la pression lifestyle of gorillas and how they take • WCS Congo, “A guide to the sur la faune sauvage et menace sa advantage of their environment. That Nouabalé ‑Ndoki National Park” survie à long terme. L’utilisation de is why the educational trail is vital in • Emilie Varela, “Mondika ecological sources d’alimentation varie tout enhancing the live observation and trail system of reference” au long de l’année et un sentier fulfils the educational and awareness écologique spécial pour les éco‑ objectives of conservation programs. ‑touristes prend en compte cela In 2008, more than 100 visitors made et explique le comportement des this journey to visit the gorillas. gorilles. Des éco ‑gardes formés expliquent les différentes espèces, l’alimentation et le comportement des gorilles. Ceci a démontré être très important à cause du peu de temps pour observer que les visi‑ This journey immerses visitors teurs ont, afin que pas de malaise soit occasionné aux gorilles. in the heart of the rainforest, allowing them to discover how gorillas use its’ Florence Perroux natural resources. Parc Zoologique de La Palmyre PO Box 8 F ‑17570 Les Mathes France 26 Partners In Conservation (PIC): WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

Charlene Jendry WAZA Project 8019 Partners In Conservation (PIC): Poverty alleviation as key for Mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei) conservation

Zoos worldwide are providing state‑ While many conservation programs An energy saving stove only costs ‑of ‑the‑art care for gorillas and are come from the perspective of saving $4.00 a unit to make; PIC funded also supporting conservation projects endangered animals and habitats more than 20,000 stoves between for free‑ranging gorilla populations. first, PIC approaches conservation 2005–2008 and will continue funding Partners In Conservation (PIC) was in these areas holistically, educating the stove project in 2009. The new initiated at the Columbus Zoo and local people about the importance of stoves are not only reducing pressure Aquarium in 1991. PIC collaborates conservation and giving them alter‑ on the rainforest but also are pre‑ with its partners in Central Africa who native means to earn wages that are serving the habitat for animals that know solutions to their conservation conservation ‑friendly. PIC’s funda‑ live there, including the endangered challenges, but sometimes just need mental belief is that by helping local chimpanzee. The mayor of a remote a small amount of money to convert populations to better their lives and village – located adjacent to the their ideas to action. The Columbus thrive without poaching or deforesta‑ Nyungwe National Park – eloquently Zoo funds PIC’s annual operating tion, these people then are empow‑ asked the PIC Team to thank the budget which makes it possible for ered to conserve their wild places. Columbus Zoo for making it possible all money raised by PIC to equally By collaborating with conservation for families in his village to make their benefit both people and wildlife in partners who provide local popula‑ own energy saving stove; he added Rwanda and the Democratic Republic tions with education, skills, and that people can now help save the of Congo (DRC). liveable‑wage jobs, PIC is able to help rainforest, because they no longer indigenous people become directly need to take wood from it. Two of the major environmental con‑ invested in saving their environment, cerns in Central Africa are the bush which in turn, helps to conserve goril‑ Again, in partnership with the Ny‑ meat trade and deforestation, espe‑ las and other vulnerable wildlife in ungwe Forest Conservation Project, cially where gorillas and other great this area of the world. PIC began working with beekeepers ape species are concerned. Poverty at Nyungwe in 2004. Beekeepers told and a lack of jobs paying a liveable Michel Masozera, former Wildlife us that they were using traditional wage are also endemic to these areas. Conservation Society’s – Country hives that they placed inside the for‑ These seemingly distantly connected Director in Rwanda – states, “If you est. When they went to collect honey problems intersect and feed off of listen to the needs of local people they burned dried grass to create one another in a vicious cycle; often and then take action … the forest will smoke to calm the bees. Forest fires many of the most lucrative “jobs” stand … and the animals will survive.” were accidentally started by the bee‑ involve illegal hunting and/or de‑ keepers while using this practice for forestation and the resulting envi‑ In Rwanda, a major threat to the gathering honey. ronmental degradation reduces the Nyungwe National Park and the opportunities for families to escape animals that live there is removing To assist the beekeepers, PIC pur‑ from poverty. wood from the rainforest for cook‑ chased equipment including smokers ing. In partnership with the Nyungwe and modern hives that the beekeep‑ Forest Conservation Project, PIC is ers placed outside the rainforest. Since funding a program that is converting the project began, no forest fires clay, sand, water and the leaves from have been started by beekeepers par‑ sweet potatoes plants into energy ticipating in the project and beekeep‑ saving stoves. One member of each ers are collecting 50% more honey. family attends a training session so The modern hives are protecting the they can learn how to make their own rainforest and economically helping stove. After drying for three weeks, beekeepers. Beekeepers have taken an energy saving stove is ready to ownership and are now helping save use. Women are now able to cook the the forest. The beekeeping project is same amount of food – which tastes being replicated in additional villages the same – and they are do so using that are adjacent to the Nyungwe 75% less wood. National Park. WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 Partners In Conservation (PIC): 27

In the DRC, PIC partners with the Pole Pole Foundation (POPOF) on projects located in the buffer zone of the Kahuzi -Biega National Park. In 1998, POPOF trained eighteen men in the craft of wood carving; these men were actively poaching animals – in‑ cluding gorillas, chimpanzees and elephants – inside Kahuzi ‑Biega. PIC continues to purchase 95% of the beautiful animal carvings made by the former poachers. These men are now able to make more money to care for their families from carving gorillas from wood than from killing them for bush meat. No animal has been killed by these men during the past 10 years.

Our experience shows that the artisan project is providing economic alternatives to men and women, is © Columbus Zoo & Aquarium helping preserve the rainforest and Artisan Project enables people to have economic alternatives the animals that live there, and has to using rainforest resources.. increased positive discussions be‑ tween our conservation partners and If conservation initiatives include ask‑ artisan items, (2) that the growth of the artisans. ing range country people not to hunt cooperatives is carefully monitored or place bee hives or remove wood to insure not only quality control but Zoos can participate in “conservation from the rainforest, PIC believes also that attention is paid to local commerce” by: (1) providing donors that it is imperative for people to be cultures, (3) that artisans have owner‑ with unique gifts that reflect the offered economic alternatives. The ship in managing their coops, and (4) zoo’s connection to conservation, (2) term “conservation commerce” was that artisans retain a working part‑ purchasing hand ‑crafted fabric tote‑ coined by Terry Bloomer, Gift Shop nership with the organizing project. ‑bags that can be given to conference Manager, at the Woodland Park Zoo. delegates or guests at donor events, PIC believes that “conservation com‑ PIC began partnering with basket and (3) including hand ‑crafted items merce” should be included in con‑ makers in a tiny village adjacent to in their gift shops that will provide servation initiatives and like viable Nyungwe National Park in 2000. guests with an opportunity to partici‑ community development projects, These women were gathering pate in conservation. The Woodland can offer people economic alterna‑ firewood from the forest everyday Park, Houston and Columbus Zoos tives so they don’t have to depend on for cooking and to keep their homes are currently selling items made by forest resources. warm. With money earned from sell‑ people participating in PIC’s Artisan ing their baskets to PIC, the ladies are Project. In order to make artisan To economically assist local people, now able to purchase charcoal made items competitive in the market PIC started an ARTISAN PROJECT from non ‑rainforest woods for cook‑ place, PIC provides them at whole‑ with one artisan cooperative in 1995. ing and heating; PIC continues to sale prices to zoos. The ARTISAN PROJECT continues purchase baskets from these women. to operate using fair trade practices, Since this program began removing and PIC is currently working with wood from the forest by the basket 400 people from sixteen coops. Care‑ makers has been reduced by 85%. ful planning and safeguards must be employed to: (1) make sure that for‑ est resources are never used to make 28 Partners In Conservation (PIC): WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

To help protect the gorillas from contracting human diseases, PIC is collaborating with the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project (MGVP) to fund health care programs for more than 200 gorilla trackers and park guards (and their wives) who work in Rwanda. This successful program protects both people and wildlife. Again, in collaboration with MGVP, PIC continues to fund annual salaries for Rwandan caregivers who provide around‑the ‑clock care for 12 young gorillas that were confiscated from poachers in Rwanda and the DRC. The goal of this program is to help ensure the infants’ physical develop‑ ment and their psychological well being.

To assist gorilla conservation, PIC is partnering with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International (DFGFI) by helping pay annual salaries for gorilla trackers, purchasing field equipment and funding a language program that is providing trackers with classes in © Columbus Zoo & Aquarium English and French. PIC continues Collecting firewood from the rainforest by basket makers has been greatly reduced. to collaborate with DFGFI to provide text books and educational materi‑ als to the Bisaté Primary School in Frederick Ndabaramiye is another disabled adults with skills needed to Kinigi, Rwanda; student test scores example of the success achieved by make traditional crafts so they can have improved with the addition of PIC collaborating with colleagues be economically independent. The these materials. The Bisaté School in Rwanda. Frederick was maimed UCC started a program to help deaf has more than eighteen hundred in 1998 when he was 15 years old – children. These children have never students, including children of gorilla by those responsible for the geno‑ been able to attend school, but now trackers. cide – when he refused to kill other come to the center everyday and are people. The PIC Team met Frederick receiving classroom instructions in PIC is also assisting Rwandans at the Imbabazi Orphanage, and the sign language through humanitarian projects. Columbus Zoo arranged for Freder‑ For the past thirteen years, PIC ick to come to Columbus in 2003 to From its inception, the UCC operated has helped Rwandan children at receive prosthetic hands. from small rented rooms and pro‑ the Imbabazi Orphanage that was vided services for more that 80 peo‑ founded by an amazing American In 2005 Frederick and a teacher from ple each day. In 2006, the Columbus woman named Roz Carr. Mrs. Carr the Imbabazi Orphanage co ‑founded Zoo’s Board of Directors, Jerry Borin, died in 2006 at the tender age of 94. the Ubumwe Community Center then the Columbus Zoo Executive PIC continues to help fund the yearly (UCC) in Gisenyi, Rwanda with their Director, Jack Hanna, Columbus operating budget for the Imbabazi own money. Their original goal is to Zoo Director Emeritus, Partners In and is providing tuition fees for respectfully assist disabled children Conservation and individual donors children who are attending either and adults. The UBUMWE is making pledged funds to build a new facility secondary school or college. it possible for disabled children to for the UCC. go to school, and they are providing WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009 Partners In Conservation (PIC): III

During construction the UCC em‑ Abstract/Conclusion Partenaires en conserva‑ ployed more than 30 local craftsmen tion (PIC): Lutte contre la each day, purchased most of the Two of the major environmental con‑ pauvreté en tant que clé building materials locally, and hired cerns in Central Africa are the bush pour la conservation du skilled area carpenters to make the meat trade and deforestation, espe‑ Gorille de Montagne furniture. No heavy equipment was cially where gorillas and other great (Gorilla beringei) used during construction; instead ape species are concerned. Poverty the new center was built using the and a lack of jobs paying a liveable Charlene Jendry skills and hands of Rwandan men and wage are also endemic to these areas. women. By utilizing the talents of the These seemingly distantly connected • Resumé/Conclusion community, the economy of the area problems intersect and feed off of Deux des principales préoccupa‑ significantly improved and graphical‑ one another in a vicious cycle. Often tions environnementales en Afrique ly illustrated to people that conserva‑ many of the most lucrative “jobs” Centrale sont le commerce de la tion can have a positive impact on involve illegal hunting and/or de‑ viande de brousse et le déboise‑ their lives. The new center opened forestation and the resulting envi‑ ment, en particulier là où les go‑ in November 2008. In addition to ronmental degradation reduces the rilles et d’autres espèces de grands the services previously provided, the opportunities for families to escape singes sont concernés. La pauvreté UCC now offers English and compu‑ from poverty. et le manque d’emplois payant un ter classes to people who attend the salaire vivable est également endé‑ center everyday – as well as – to other Partners In Conservation (PIC) was mique à ces domaines. Ces problè‑ people in the local community. founded and initiated at the Colum‑ mes semblant être lointainement bus Zoo and Aquarium as part of the connectés croisent et se nourrissent PIC realized that supporting the Im‑ answer to this problem. While many l’un de l’autre dans un cercle vicieux. babazi Orphanage and the UCC didn’t conservation programmes come from Souvent, beaucoup des «emplois» exactly fit within our conservation the perspective of saving endangered les plus lucratifs impliquent la objectives, but we knew that it was animals and habitats first, PIC ap‑ chasse illégale et / ou la déforesta‑ the right thing for us to do. An unex‑ proaches conservation in these areas tion et la résultante dégradation de pected benefit from these partner‑ holistically, educating local people l’environnement réduisant les pos‑ ships is that we gained the respect of about the importance of conservation sibilités pour les familles d’échapper the Rwandan government for helping and giving them alternative means à la pauvreté. children and adults who survived the to earn wages that are conservation‑ Partenaires en conservation (PIC) genocide. This opened doors for pro‑ ‑friendly. By collaborating with local a été fondé et lancé au Columbus ductive conservation discussions with populations and providing them with Zoo et Aquarium comme partie de Rwandan wildlife authorities. education, skills, and liveable‑wage la réponse à ce problème. Alors jobs, PIC helps indigenous people be‑ que de nombreux programmes Gandhi wrote,“ You must be part of come directly invested in saving their de conservation viennent de la the change that you wish to see in the environment, which in turn, helps to perspective de sauver des espèces world.” Zoos worldwide are already conserve gorillas and other vulner‑ animales menacées et les habitats part of that change. By working able wildlife in this area of the world. en premier lieu, PIC a une approche together, we are not only helping im‑ holistique vers la conservation dans prove the lives of captive populations ces domaines, en éduquant les po‑ but also are helping conservation ini‑ pulations locales sur l’importance tiatives – as we collaborate and learn de la conservation et leur donnant from – range country colleagues. PIC des moyens alternatifs pour gagner will continue building conservation des salaires qui sont favorables à la partnerships in Rwanda and the DRC conservation. En collaborant avec that address innovative solutions for les populations locales et en leur both people and wildlife. procurant l’éducation, les com‑ Charlene Jendry pétences et des emplois avec des Founding Member salaires vivables, PIC aide les popu‑ Partners In Conservation lations autochtones pour qu’elles Columbus Zoo and Aquarium deviennent directement investies [email protected] dans la sauvegarde de leur environ‑ PO Box 400 nement, qui à son tour, contribue à Powell, Ohio 43065 la conservation des gorilles et des USA autres groupes vulnérables de la faune dans cette région du monde. WAZA magazine Vol 11/2009

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ISSN: 2074-4528