The Bushmeat Crisis
Bushmeat refers to wildlife that is illegally, commercially or unsustainable traded. This includes hunting of protected species (such as apes and elephants) hunting in protected areas (such as national parks and conservation areas) and hunting using illegal methods of hunting (including snares, unregistered firearms, and in seasons when hunting is not permitted). Over hunting of wildlife for commercial sale is empting the forests of animals including endangered species and other wildlife species protected by law. Killing animals for bushmeat is currently the most significant and immediate threat to wildlife populations in Central Africa. However the bushmeat crisis is a global one, spanning Latin and North America, Asia and Southeast Asia and it has already caused the extinction of many species around the world.

While humans have always consumed animals, only recently have rapidly increasing human populations, commercialization of wildlife, the lack of government capacity to enforce the wildlife laws, and unprecedented access to forested areas, led to such a widespread overhunting of wildlife. The commercialization of wildlife to get cash and goods is a main culprit for the bushmeat crisis. Bushmeat has been commercialized due to the increased demand for bushmeat in the urban markets of Africa

Below are answers to commonly asked questions regarding the Bushmeat Crisis.

What is Bushmeat? In Africa, the forest is often referred to as "the bush", thus "bushmeat" is a term used by many to indicate the illegal, commercial, unsustainable trade in wildlife for meat. This practice targets all species in the forest, even those animals that are threatened or endangered. Some wildlife species killed for bushmeat include elephant, forest antelope (duikers), porcupine, bush pig, cane rat, pangolin, monitor lizard, chimpanzee and gorilla.

What is the Role of the Logging Industry in the Bushmeat Crisis?
Logging, which also drives the search for petroleum and minerals in forested areas, provides a significant source of national revenue for the densely forested countries of West and Central Africa. Unfortunately, road construction associated with logging increases hunter access to otherwise unavailable sections of the forest.

How Can I Help Animals Affected by the Bushmeat Crisis?
You can help wildlife species, impacted by the Bushmeat Crisis in the following ways:

• Sign the Bushmeat Promise to commit to taking personal action on this critical issue
• Educate yourself further on Africa, it's wildlife and it's people. Learn how it impacts local communities in Africa and the rest of the world. Tell others in your community about the bushmeat trade.
• Be a responsible consumer. Make wise choices about your purchases and consumption of natural resources. Look for and purchase products that are harvested sustainably. Support timber and wood products that have been certified regarding both forest and wildlife management practices.
• Write your elected Government officials and let them know that you are concerned about this crisis.
• Support groups that have taken an active role in researching and fighting the Bushmeat Crisis, including:
  • The Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund
  • American Zoo and Aquarium Association
  • African Wildlife foundation
  • Conservation International
  • Dian Fossey Fund International
  • Jane Goodall Institute
  • Wildlife Conservation Society
  • World Wildlife Fund, U.S.
• Contact the Bushmeat Task Force (www.bushmeat.org) for more information about activities and programs in your area.