Threats to chimpanzees in Uganda

Chimpanzees are an endangered species because they are rare and declining rapidly across Africa. International laws protect chimpanzees because they are threatened by extinction. Their main cause of decline is due to the activities of people for example:

* Chimpanzees are losing their home in Uganda. In the past 15 years over 800 kms of forest has been cut down where chimpanzees live mostly in small patches outside protected areas- this is about twice the size of Budongo forest.
* Chimpanzees are hunted for meat in some parts of Uganda. It is illegal to hunt chimpanzees. Most chimpanzees get killed each year for meat in Africa than all the chimpanzees in Uganda.
* Chimpanzees are hunted for the pet trade. For every baby chimpanzee caught in the wild approximately 10 chimpanzees die in the process. It is illegal to capture, buy or sell chimpanzees.
* Chimpanzees are killed or maimed by wire traps set for antelopes in the forests. 25% of chimpanzees studied in Uganda have injuries from traps. It is illegal to hunt in forest reserves or national parks.

What can you do?
* Help the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and Forest Department enforce the laws in Uganda by reporting illegal activities.
* Protect forest on your land it is not only important for chimpanzees but can improve your agriculture and encourages rainfall.
* Make people aware in your community about how rare and special these animals are. People travel thousands of miles to come and see them here in Uganda because they are so special.

Find more about Chimpanzees

Facts about Chimpanzees
Threats to Chimpanzees in Uganda
The chimpanzee Census in Uganda National Parks
3 Days Kibale Chimpanzee Safari
The 7 days Apes Circuit