Chimpanzees

The chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) is an intelligent great ape that shares a common ancestor with humans. Along with the bonobo, it is considered our closest living relative. It communicates richly with facial expressions, calls and gestures.

Where does it live?

It lives in the rainforests, wooded savannas and montane forests of West and Central Africa, in fragmented populations across an area stretching from Guinea to Tanzania.

What does it eat?

It is an omnivore whose diet is mostly fruit. It also eats leaves, seeds, flowers and insects. Some communities hunt small mammals such as monkeys in groups.

Behaviour and social life

Chimpanzees live in communities of dozens of individuals, but members split into smaller parties during the day and later rejoin. Communities have a hierarchy among males. Grooming each other is an important way to strengthen social bonds. Chimpanzees use tools: twigs to fish termites out of mounds, stones to crack nuts and leaves to soak up water. These skills differ from community to community and are learned by the young through observation.

Young

Pregnancy lasts about eight months and usually a single infant is born. It nurses for several years and stays with its mother for many years.

Conservation status

The chimpanzee is listed as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List. Deforestation, mining, hunting for bushmeat, the illegal pet trade and diseases that can spread from humans are the main threats.

Fun facts

• Jane Goodall's observations in Tanzania showed the world that chimpanzees make and use tools.
• Chimpanzees can recognise themselves in a mirror.
• Some communities perform dramatic displays, called "rain dances", when rain begins.