At the end of 2007 the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife seized 1220 African grey parrots at the airport of Douala, because they were about to be illegally exported. They were brought to the Limbe Wildlife Centre to be taken care of and to be set free as soon as possible. However, most birds could not be released right away because they were in very bad condition, covered with glue and with clipped wings.
With support from many, flight cages were built and veterinary specialists were flown in from Italy. As soon as they were ready, the parrots were released back to the wild. In the meantime almost a thousand parrots have been brought back to their natural habitat. But some birds still have not recovered fully and they now live in a mango tree on the grounds of the LWC and are fed by the keepers. As soon as their wings can carry them, they can fly away on their own.