Successful reproduction in wild-released orphan chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes troglodytes)

Primates. 2003 Jan;44(1):67-9. doi: 10.1007/s10329-002-0003-y. Epub 2002 Nov 1.

Abstract

We report a case of successful reproduction in wild-released orphan chimpanzees. Using non-invasive genetic analysis, we determined the paternity of an infant born to a female chimpanzee released by HELP (Habitat Ecologique et Liberté des Primates) Congo into the Conkouati-Douli National Park, Republic of Congo. The sire was a released male, thus demonstrating successful reproduction in both male and female released chimpanzees. These results provide evidence that release into the wild may be a viable response to the plight of orphan chimpanzees in Africa, and we discuss further applications of non-invasive genetic tagging to release programs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alleles
  • Animals
  • Congo
  • Copulation
  • Environment*
  • Fathers
  • Female
  • Genotype
  • Male
  • Maternal Behavior
  • Pan troglodytes / genetics
  • Pan troglodytes / physiology*
  • Reproduction / physiology*