Wild Animals

Wild Gorilla Bushmeat Trade and Welfare

Commercial bushmeat hunting targeting gorillas and other great apes for urban food markets represents a major source of population decline and individual welfare harm.

Key Facts

The bushmeat trade is estimated at 1-5 million tonnes of wildlife annually across Central Africa
Great ape meat is often sold as a luxury item in urban markets despite legal prohibition
Snares set for other animals injure and kill gorillas as bycatch
Orphaned gorillas confiscated from the bushmeat trade require years of sanctuary rehabilitation
The Bushmeat Crisis Task Force coordinates enforcement and alternative protein programs

Welfare Considerations

Gorillas killed for the bushmeat trade typically die from snare injuries, gunshot wounds, or capture stress - none of which are instantaneous or painless. Orphaned infants suffer profound trauma from witnessing family group deaths and subsequent transport stress. Supporting alternative protein sources and enforcement reduces both the population-level and individual welfare impacts of bushmeat hunting.

What You Can Do

Support the Bushmeat Crisis Task Force and enforcement programs in Central Africa
Never consume great ape products if traveling in bushmeat range countries
Donate to gorilla sanctuary programs that rehabilitate orphaned apes
Advocate for sustainable protein alternative programs in range countries