Protecting All Wildlife, Not Just Okapi

In March, a young male chimpanzee was rescued by ICCN ecoguards and brought to the OCP headquarters for care until transfer to a long-term care center could be arranged. Under the watchful eye of Rosmarie Ruf and OCP staff, the chimpanzee received immediate medical care and close attention for his compromised health to stabilize his condition as best as we could. He has now been safely relocated to Lubumbashi at J.A.C.K. Primate Sanctuary for ongoing treatment and rehabilitation.

This case showcases the persistent threats faced by endangered eastern chimpanzee populations (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) from poaching, habitat loss, and the exotic pet trade. Often when a young chimpanzee is confiscated, a majority of the group was sacrificed by poachers, and the young are often sold as part of the illegal pet trade for poachers to generate additional cash. The ICCN ecoguards regularly patrol the forest arresting poachers and confiscating illegally collected wildlife and wildlife products. Our education team continues our efforts to educate communities on alternative sources of income that have limited, or reduced effects on the surrounding forest. 

The Okapi Wildlife Reserve is home to one of the largest remaining chimpanzee populations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. As stewards of this invaluable ecosystem, it is imperative we continue our efforts to promote and preserve these iconic primates for future generations.