Photography by Ronan Donovan and written by David Quammen

National Geographic Magazine

When Chimps and Humans Collide

After decades of deforestation across western Uganda, chimpanzees are thrust into direct conflict with subsistence farmers. The consequence is one that mirrors many human-wildlife conflicts around the world.

  • Things are still uneasy in Kyamajaka these days, for at least some people and some chimpanzees. Attacks by chimps on human infants have continued, totaling at least three fatalities and half a dozen injuries or narrow escapes in greater Muhororo since 2014

    David Quammen

  • “We found out pretty quickly that they didn’t like people inside the forest,” McLennan told me. “Their strategy was to try to intimidate us. Which they did very effectively.” The big males especially: They hooted, drummed on the ground, thrashed vegetation. One day they chased McLennan 250 yards but left him unhurt when he fell.

    David Quammen

  • “The chimps are very clever,” she told me. “If you don’t chase them, they will be your friend. If you chase them, you will see fire.” Tinkasiimire has preserved much of her forest. Her attitude is, let the chimps live there, let them be, let them visit.

    David Quammen

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