Student raising money for peaceful primates

(CNS): Montessori By The Sea student Jared Harrison, 12, has launched a campaign to raise money and awareness on behalf of the bonobos of Africa. “These apes are amazing, beautiful creatures,” said Jared. “I’m trying to do everything I can to get people in the Cayman Islands to learn about them and make donations to try and save them from extinction.” Bonobos are a species distinct from the common chimpanzee that most people are aware of. Unlike chimps, Bonobos walk upright and show remarkably high levels of cooperation and peacemaking in the wild. Scientists estimate there currently are only some 10,000 left alive in central Africa. (Photo by Guy P. Harrison)

Wild populations have been ravaged by war, habitat loss and poaching. Without increased efforts, conservationists warn, the bonobos could be gone forever within a few decades.

Last week Jared wrote a research paper about the bonobos and delivered a passionate presentation to his class. “My dad has always been very interested in bonobos and he made me aware of how special they are,” Jared explained. “I was touched by how peaceful and kind they are. Other primates, including us, have wars, kill each other, and have a hard time sharing. Bonobos are so different. When they get upset about something they just hug it out. We can actually learn from them. They cooperate and take care of each other so well. They’re extraordinary.”

Jared hopes to spread the word and stir interest in these unique primates that most people have never heard of. Once people are aware of them, he believes, they are likely to want to help prevent their demise from habitat loss and poaching.

“I can’t let this [extinction] happen to them. I feel like I have to try and help them. I’m going to give all the money I have saved and my friends at school are going to give money too. I hope adults in Cayman will visit the Web site, www.bonobos.org, and donate money. You can even adopt a bonobo on the site. You don’t get to keep it but you help keep it safe in the wild. I’m begging Caymanians to please help save these majestic creatures.”

Jared encourages people who are interested in bonobos to email him at jaredconservation@gmail.com so he can send them more information. He also says he hopes to connect with others and form a kids’ conservation club.