The Great Primate Handshake – Volunteer in Africa, working to conserve monkeys and apes through film and educational content production

Anthropology Team

The anthropology team set out to investigate conflicting attitudes towards non-human animals, specifically other primates, in a range of contexts in South Africa. We were also charged with observing the work of TGPG, assessing the impact of digital media on generating awareness of conservation issues and initiatives.

As expected, our work here has raised far more questions than answers due, in no small part, to the comparatively short time period available in which to conduct research. However, we have been able to gather a wealth of information relating to conservation in South Africa, and a representative sample of attitudes towards both vervets and baboons. This data will be used to spur further research once we return to the UK. It is anticipated that our findings will be published as articles in appropriate journals, and in a book, which documents the first ever Great Primate Handshake.