WILDLIFE IN THE SOUTH EAST OF CAMEROON

In the south east of Cameroon, there are more than 300 bird species found in the forest, with a huge population of African grey parrots. There are so many other species that can be found only in a few other places in the world. Scientifics studies shows that there are about 250 butterflies species and more than 50 large mammals species. The forest is known for his wildlife species.

         Of all animals in this region, it’s the elephant that is traditionally important to the people. For example, Yokadouma which is main town in this region means “the elephant never falls.” One could hardly pass through the south east of Cameroon without feeling the presence of elephants. Unfortunately, the hunting of elephants is a major problem in this area. It’s even worse when logging has opened most of the forest around the area. This provides quick and easy roads to poach to carry their bush meat to neighboring markets. The elephant tusks are used for ivory.

         The south east region of Cameroon also has thousands of gorillas. The Lobeke National Park alone contains 5,000 gorillas. The gorillas are there due to naturals factors such as vegetation and swamps. The gorillas are just like humans and live in groups. They feed on fruits and nuts from the trees.

         One of the many sounds in the forest in the night is the snore of the gorilla. But the gorilla is also disappearing due to human activities. They are also killed for “bush meat”. Similarly, they are driven away by the feeling down of trees and cleaving of the forest for farming.

         Chimpanzees, like gorillas are also found in the south east of Cameroon, but not in a large number. They always behave in an angry and violent way. It can imitate human ways of life. That is why they are mostly used for medical research. Young chimps are also sold as pets kept in restaurants, hotels for entertainment.