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Article History

Received: 13 September 2024

Revised: 13 February 2025

Accepted: 14 February 2025

First Online: 24 March 2025

Declarations

:

: The research on chimpanzees was strictly non-invasive/observational and adhered to all ethical rules and guidelines, as stipulated by both the involved research institutes and the in-country authority. According to the German Animal Welfare Act of May 25, 1998, Section V, Article 7, this study was classified as a non-animal experiment and did not require approval from a relevant body. Observers followed stringent hygiene protocols, including an eight-day quarantine and the use of face masks when near chimpanzees, maintaining a minimum distance of eight meters to reduce the risk of disease transmission. The study was approved by the Ugandan Wildlife Authority, Ugandan National Council for Science and Technology, as well as by the Makerere University Biological Field Station and the Ngogo Chimpanzee Project. All applicable international, national, and institutional guidelines for the care and use of animals were followed.

: The authors declare no competing interests.