Wire snares set by poachers for bushmeat capture injure and kill wild chimpanzees throughout Central and West Africa. Dedicated snare removal teams and veterinary intervention programs are essential wildlife welfare interventions.
Snare injuries cause prolonged, severe suffering. Chimpanzees with limb amputations frequently survive but face reduced foraging ability and social challenges. The welfare case for snare removal programs is compelling - preventing injury is far preferable to treating it. Field veterinary teams that can respond to snared animals face difficult conditions but offer direct relief of suffering. Community engagement programs that address the economic drivers of bushmeat hunting are essential for long-term snare reduction.