Socialising groups of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) of the Lwiro Primate Rehabilitation Centre as a step towards its reintroduction into Kahuzi-Biega National Park, in east Democratic Republic of Congo

<< Go back

Main researcher: Carme Vidal (COOPERA)

Description:
The objective of this project is to contribute to the conservation of chimpanzees to prevent their extinction in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The Lwiro Primate Rehabilitation Centre, located at the edge of Kahuzi-Biega National Park, is home to 48 chimpanzees of this subspecies. The centre’s ultimate goal is the reintroduction of these individuals back into their natural habitat. As a step towards re-introduction socialising the groups of chimpanzees currently at the centre is essential. To do this, a closed electrical installation will be constructed in a semi-free wooded area. This installation will enable the chimpanzees to socialise and develop their specific natural behaviours. Thus there will be a period of habituation prior to their reintroduction into Kahuzi-Biega National Park, which will contribute to the conservation of this subspecies of chimpanzee in their habitat.

Sponsors of Research and preservation of the Zoo: