19. The Diana Monkey

Conservationists Assemble

Tune in to this episode of the Conservationists Assemble as we leap into the world of the Diana Monkey and discuss the progressive efforts of the West African Primate Conservation Action (WAPCA) with expert guest, Andrea Dempsey.
The episode kicks off with an insight into what is a Diana Monkey, named because of particular marking on their behind. We learn that you might hear them before you see them as they're a vocal species and about their social dynamics.

A discussion into how adaptable these endangered animals have needed to become to overcome pressures brought around by human presence and their role within their ecosystem.
Looking forward, Andrea advocates for the one plan approach to conservation whereby multiple contributors from different backgrounds have a role within conservation, be that in situ NGOs, good ex situ zoos and wildlife parks and governments. This leads to a thought-provoking conversation on the consideration of utilising the skills and expertise of the people that share their home with the Diana Monkey to take the helm of in situ conservation to ensure longevity.

An important message about impactful consumerism. Using sustainable palm oil as an example, we talk about how if we as consumers look or cheaper or less ethical products, then a knock on effect of that is the producers of that product receiving low income and look for alternatives of income and livelihood in the form of actions that have a negative impact on wildlife numbers.

After acknowledging that the actions WAPCA are taking for conservation could provide a model for other conservation NGOs we take a look into Andrea's background.
From starting out in the film and media industry, including a stint in managing comedians. A conversation with one particular comedian led to Andrea volunteering at ZSL London Zoo. Andrea acknowledges certain transferable skills from transitioning from working with comedians to primates and that gaining a paid job largely attributed to her discovery of WAPCA and provided that next stepping stone in her career.
Andrea closes out the episode with an emphatic message to our listeners about the impact they can have on conversation by simply visiting their local good zoo.