Impacts of Selective Logging and Associated Anthropogenic Disturbance on Intact Forest Landscapes and Apes of Northern Congo

Selective logging and associated human activities in the Sangha Trinational landscape of northern Congo have complex impacts on ape populations, including chimpanzees and western lowland gorillas. Despite high densities of these apes in both intact forest landscapes (IFL) and non-IFL areas, selective logging alters floristic factors such as tree stem density and herb abundance, which may influence ape resource use. Notably, chimpanzee nesting behavior shifts in logged areas, with nests built closer to the ground compared to IFL, suggesting a reduction in their preferred tree nesting niche. While gorilla nest height remains unaffected, increased road access due to logging facilitates illegal hunting, posing a significant threat to wildlife. The study underscores the importance of long-term collaborations among stakeholders for implementing conservation strategies and certification standards that balance biodiversity protection with sustainable forestry practices.

Morgan, D., Strindberg, S., Winston, W., Stephens, C. R., Traub, C., Ayina, C. E., Ndolo Ebika, S. T., Mayoukou, W., Koni, D., Iyenguet, F., & Sanz, C. M. (2019). Impacts of Selective Logging and Associated Anthropogenic Disturbance on Intact Forest Landscapes and Apes of Northern Congo. Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, 2. https://doi.org/10.3389/ffgc.2019.00028