Nigerian Montane Forest Project

Volunteer Wanted

We have an opportunity for a volunteer to study the reactions of local tantalus monkeys to three new neighbours (photo at right) and possibly the 'soft'
release of the trio into Ngel Nyaki forest.

Jack, Audrey and their baby, Savannah were brought to Ngel Nyaki in December 2009 by Prof Janette Wallis.

Prof Wallis has been overseeing the care of these monkeys for the last two years while they lived in a cage on the American University of Nigeria (AUN) campus, in Yola.

Because Janette has now left AUN, the monkeys have been moved to Ngel Nyaki so that we can attempt a soft release into the wild. At present, they are living in a cage at the forest edge and we are monitoring their behaviour as they become acquainted with the local tantalus monkey troop that visits daily. We are also getting them accustomed to the local diet. We need someone to help us study these monkeys."

If you are interested, please contact me Dr Hazel Chapman

Why Does UC Support Nigerian Forests?

Nigerian montane forests (forests above +/-1500 m) are globally important because they represent one of the most threatened habitats in Africa. They are satellite populations of many species of plants and animals restricted to African mountains and harbour over 24 IUCN endangered tree species, are rich in wildlife, especially primates, and are an Important Bird Area.

Puttynose Ngel Nyaki forest is an impressive stand of rare dry type montane to sub-montane forest and is the only forest of its type left on the heavily populated Mambilla plateau. Ngel Nyaki is home to a population of the rare and endangered Nigerian chimpanzee, Pan troglodytes subsp. villerosus and other primates including Putty-nosed, Mona and Tantalus monkeys. Birds such as turacos, the Cameroon olive pigeon, double toothed barbet and green bulbul are common. This forest is rich in Cow biodiversity value and under threat.

Immense pressure is being put on this forest ecosystem by Nigeria’s burgeoning population. Unless immediate action is taken animal populations will be hunted to extinction and the forests replaced by subsistence farming.

The Nigerian Montane Forest Project’s mission is to promote national and international commitment to the conservation of Nigeria’s montane forests by inspiring excellence in research by postgraduate students and empowering local communities through employment and education.

Biodiversity at Ngel Nyaki

We are currently creating a list of species from the local area. Currently online are butterflies, fish, reptiles and amphibians. The list will continue to grow as species are identified.