What are the main threats to bushbaby populations?

The main threats to bushbaby populations include deforestation, habitat loss, roadkill, dog attacks, and the illegal pet trade.

What conservation efforts are being proposed for bushbabies?

Conservation efforts include building "canopy bridges" to help them cross roads safely and encouraging locals not to feed primates or leave pet food out.

What is the current conservation status of thick-tailed bushbabies?

Thick-tailed bushbabies were redesignated from 'least concern' to 'near threatened' in January 2026.

Home / Environment / Bushbaby numbers plummet: Can bridges save them?

Bushbaby numbers plummet: Can bridges save them?

19 Feb

•

Summary

Deforestation is shrinking bushbaby habitats by 3.6% per decade.
Canopy bridges are proposed to help bushbabies cross roads safely.
Thick-tailed bushbabies are now 'near threatened' by conservationists.

Bushbaby numbers plummet: Can bridges save them?

Bushbaby populations, once common, are now facing a significant decline. Researchers have observed a concerning trend of increased mortality due to roadkill and dog attacks, exacerbated by habitat loss. Deforestation, driven by agricultural expansion and housing development, is shrinking their natural environment by an estimated 3.6% per decade.

In response to these threats, scientists are advocating for the implementation of "canopy bridges." These rope-based crossings would allow bushbabies to safely traverse roads, mitigating the risk of traffic accidents. This conservation measure has proven effective for other fragmented wildlife populations globally.