A protocol has been established for new arrivals to the centre whereby the animals are systematically quarantined in an isolated area for at least three months, treated for basic parasite problems and undergo TB-testing and vaccination. Following this, new arrivals are then introduced to a resident group of their own species. Continual assessments of all the animals' health are made; all the staffs are versed in noticing the symptoms of various illnesses and stool samples are regularly collected for parasite evaluation by an on-site qualified veterinarian. All the primates within the LWC are routinely treated for worms every three months and vaccinations are repeated when required.

The LWC has a basic veterinary facility where minor veterinary procedures are conducted, and where supplies and equipment are stored for the prevention and treatment of various health problems. Since 1994, Dr. John Lewis of the International Zoo Veterinary Group has volunteered time and expertise, travelling to Limbe on many occasions to provide veterinary support and bring supplies and advice from the UK. In addition, the LWC has a working relationship with the Pasteur Institute, which routinely analyse blood and tissue samples of the Centre's animals.

All animals are housed in large, spacious enclosures, the largest of which have outdoor areas enclosed by an electric fence, as well as satellite cages that provide sleeping quarters and facilitate handling and cleaning. In order to prevent/limit the spread of any infections that might occur, each keeper is assigned to a specific section every day from which he/she does not stray. Cleaning of the enclosures is carried out thoroughly, twice daily, at the start and end of the day, using disinfectant. Footbaths containing disinfectant are also used at the entrance to each enclosure to prevent infections from being transferred. All the keepers wear rain boots (and rubber gloves during cleaning) whilst working on their section and wash their hands after being with the animals to maintain an appropriate level of hygiene.

The great advantage of housing animals within their country of origin is that they can be provided with a habitat and diet that matches, as closely as possible, that which would be found in their natural environment. All animals receive a varied and plentiful diet. The keepers monitor their feeding behaviour to assess the impact of any changes within their diet. The primates are fed four times daily on a variety of fruits and vegetables obtained from the market. In order to avoid contamination of food supplies, the food room is treated in the same manner as an animal section as regards hygiene.

Enrichment

Enclosures are continually modified for enrichment according to species-specific requirements to provide a more stimulating environment for the animals. For the chimpanzees, rope, nets, climbing structures, feeding platforms and toys (such as old rain boots etc.) are all used. Where possible, elements of their natural environment are incorporated into the enclosures as the ultimate form of enrichment, which serves to facilitate the rehabilitation process. For the juvenile chimpanzees, the LWC has plans to include a tree house and termite-mound within their enclosure, both of which will further encourage their natural behaviour.

Finally, enclosures are continually modified for enrichment according to species-specific requirements to provide a more stimulating environment for the animals (e.g. addition and regular rearrangement of rope, nets, climbing structures, feeding platforms, toys etc.). Where possible, elements of their natural environment are incorporated into their enclosures as the ultimate form of enrichment, which serves to facilitate the rehabilitation process. This includes plant materials such as branches and 'elephant stalk' with which the chimpanzees, for example, enjoy constructing nests.

Also in this sub-section [Limbe Wildlife Centre] »
History of the LWC · Education at the LWC · Animals at the LWC · Achievements and Objectives · Contribute to the LWC · Our supporters