Central Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes troglodytes)
The Central Chimpanzee, a resident of moist lowland forests and swamps, has a broad geographical range from the Ubangi River in the east to the Sanaga River in northwest Cameroon.
This type of chimpanzee shifts its diet with population and seasons. Ripe fruit, young leaves, bark, and stems are prime choices; consumption of mammals, including other primates, is occasional. Community sizes can reach 64-71 individuals.
Unfortunately, the Central Chimpanzee is an endangered species3, with threats of poaching and disease casting long shadows.
They exhibit a slow life history with a generation time estimated at 25 years and, hence, are unable to sustain high mortality levels. The persistent poaching problem across Central Africa likely implies unnoticed but significant population declines.