Masks for Chimps

Donations to a crowdfunding project have helped to get much needed PPE and ‘tip taps’ to Guinea Bissau’s Cantanhez National Park to protect populations of endangered chimpanzees at risk of developing Covid19. Lead researcher of Exeter’s ongoing programme, Dr. Kimberley Hockings, from the Centre for Ecology and Conservation at the Penryn Campus, set up this project to give workers and volunteers the equipment and supplies needed to help try to stop the transmission of the virus. 

Exeter researchers in Guinea Bissau, are leading an ongoing programme to protect the populations of endangered chimpanzees whilst also supporting the livelihoods of local communities who share the Cantanhez National Park as their home. The global spread of COVID-19 is now putting these communities at risk. The virus has reached Guinea Bissau and it’s only a matter of time before the inhabitants of Cantanhez are affected. Lead researcher Dr. Kimberley Hockings, from the Centre for Ecology and Conservation at the Penryn Campus, with support from the alumni and supporters team, set up a crowdfunding project to construct non-touch ‘tip tap’ hand washing stations and provide masks and soap.

You can watch a video with Dr. Kimberley Hockings, about the work being carried out in Guinea Bissau and why this funding was needed online.