Facts about Chimpanzees – All you need to know
Chimpanzee trekking has become the second most sought-after primate activity, following in the footsteps of mountain gorilla trekking. Similar to the mountain gorillas, chimpanzee trekking takes place in a forest. Participants embark on a trek through the forest to encounter fascinating chimpanzees, spending an hour observing them before exiting the forest. This activity attracts over 1000 travelers who seek the opportunity to witness these amazing creatures.
Genetic Similarity: 90% DNA Shared with Humans
Chimpanzees, like mountain gorillas, share a striking genetic similarity with humans, with approximately 90% of their DNA being identical to that of humans. This close genetic relationship is one of the reasons chimpanzees captivate the interest of many. Travelers from around the world visit chimpanzee habitats to experience this connection and witness the unique behaviors of these primates.
1. Rain Forest Dwelling Chimpanzees
Chimpanzees make their homes in rainforests, choosing these environments due to the availability of food and a constant supply of water. Rainforests provide the ideal conditions for chimpanzees to thrive physically and in all aspects of their lives.
2. Exclusively African Residents
Chimpanzees are exclusively found in Africa, currently inhabiting 21 African countries. The highest population is concentrated in central and East Africa. Uganda, in East Africa, was once referred to as the primate capital with a population of over 10,000 chimpanzees.
3. Cognitive Abilities: Learning Skills and Language
Chimpanzees, owing to their shared DNA with humans, possess the remarkable ability to learn various skills and even language, including sign language. They demonstrate social skills, spatial understanding, and an ability to learn words. Chimpanzees have been observed playing with objects and displaying behaviors that suggest mourning the deaths of their companions.
4. Tool Usage Among Chimpanzees
The shared DNA with humans enables chimpanzees to use tools in their daily activities. Whether for feeding, playing, protecting themselves against danger, or moving from one place or tree to another, chimpanzees demonstrate a remarkable ability to utilize self-made tools.
5. Omnivorous Diets of Chimpanzees
Similar to gorillas, chimpanzees are omnivores, consuming a varied diet that includes shrubs, tree shoots, fruits, roots, and small insects. Each individual chimpanzee is responsible for finding their own food, making feeding primarily an independent activity for these primates.
6. Social Nature: Living in Communities
Chimpanzees are highly social animals, living in groups that range from 10 to 20 individuals for smaller families to larger communities of up to 40 or even 100 individuals. These communities have a specific hierarchy, with a dominant alpha male leading the group.
7. Reproduction: Once in 5 Years
Chimpanzees have a unique reproductive pattern, with females carrying only one viable pregnancy once every five years. After giving birth, the mother carries the young chimpanzee on her back for the next three to four years. This means that the next opportunity for the mother to mate and give birth occurs every five years.
8. Quadrupedal Movement: Using All Four Limbs
Chimpanzees exhibit both quadrupedal and bipedal movement. They can move on all four limbs – their two hands and legs. However, if the need arises, chimpanzees can also use just their legs to move around.
9. Lifespan: Up to 80 Years in Captivity
In their natural habitat, chimpanzees can live up to 40 years. However, in captivity, it has been recorded that chimpanzees can survive up to 80 years, showcasing the impact of different environments on their lifespan.
