Overview
Cross River Gorilla Surveys in the Highland Rainforests of South West Cameroon

Southwest Cameroon harbours two of the most threatened African great apes: the critically endangered Cross River Gorilla (the rarest of the gorilla sub-species) and the Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee (the most endangered chimpanzee subspecies in Africa). By volunteering in Africa on this conservation adventure, you will help both species, which are key to the forest ecosystems of the border region of Nigeria and Cameroon. Volunteering on this conservation project in Cameroon will take you to work on the frontline of conservation, taking part in surveys of the montane rainforest (some of which have never been surveyed before), and in community education and awareness-raising activities.

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In the past I was successfully killing many gorillas and chimps that were crop raiding on my land. Now that I know how few are left I want to be a ranger and work hard to get them back.

Local hunter, Mmockmbie, South West Cameroon.

What Difference Does This Project Make?

Threats to the survival of gorillas, chimpanzees and other primates in the Lebialem Highlands have been identified as being: agricultural encroachment (the conversion of forest habitats to farms and plantations); commercial logging; habitat and great ape population fragmentation due to settlements and roads; and especially hunting, trapping and the illegal trade of bush meat. As these threats continue to impact on the area, there is an urgent need to complete an assessment of the distribution of great apes and the threats and opportunities for their conservation. Ultimately, this will lead to the establishment of community wildlife reserves, thus protecting them for the future.

Highlights

Helping to conserve Cross River Gorillas and chimpanzees; working with local staff; using scientific survey methods; being immersed in the indigenous communities of the highland rainforest; meeting with local kings, chiefs, teachers and children; visiting Limbe Wildlife Centre; and experiencing this unique, authentic African rainforest expedition.

Location

The Lebialem Highlands are a six-hour drive from the coastal town of Limbe in the South west Province of Cameroon. Over 355 bird species have been recorded in this hotspot - among which 50 species are endemic to the afro-montane highlands, yet 15 are globally threatened. Endangered primates, such as Drills and Preuss Guenon, live here too.

Field Conditions

The local conditions are very basic and the terrain is very tough, being in an area where there are many steep slopes to climb and the temperatures and humidity are high. The project will involve camping in two-man tents, where there will be no electricity and no toilets. Meals will be very basic, yet nutritional.