Wildlife

Wild Chimpanzee Bushmeat Trade

Hunting chimpanzees for bushmeat threatens their survival and causes intense suffering across Central and West Africa.

Key Facts

Chimpanzees are protected by law in all range states but enforcement is limited
Bushmeat hunters kill adult chimps and capture orphans for illegal pet trade
Orphaned chimpanzees suffer severe trauma and require years of rehabilitation
Cultural demand for bushmeat persists in urban as well as rural areas
Alternative protein programs help reduce demand in some communities

Welfare Considerations

Chimpanzees caught in bushmeat snares suffer prolonged pain and often lose limbs before rescue. Orphaned infants experience profound psychological trauma from witnessing their mothers death. Sanctuary care for traumatized chimps requires decades of expert support.

What You Can Do

Support chimpanzee sanctuary and rehabilitation organizations
Advocate for stronger bushmeat trade enforcement
Support alternative livelihood programs in chimp range countries
Donate to organizations working on demand reduction
Never purchase bushmeat products abroad