The chimpanzee can be found in the rainforests, grasslands, and woodlands of Central & Western Africa. Like us, chimps are highly social animals that care for their offspring for years. Chimpanzees are our closest living relatives, sharing more than 98 percent of our genetic blueprint. Humans and chimps are also thought to share a common ancestor who lived approximately 4+ million years prior.
First the Stats…
Scientific name: Pan
Height: 3.8 ft.
Weight: Up to 130 lbs.
Lifespan: 40 – 50 years (in the wild) | Up to 60 (in captivity)
Now on to the Facts!
1.) They use sticks to fish termites out of mounds and bunches of leaves to sop up drinking water. They also use stones to break the shells of nuts.
2.) Chimps are susceptible to the same illnesses as humans.
3.) They exchange affection such as hugs, touches, kisses, and use a complex system of sounds and gestures to communicate.
4.) Grooming is also an important ritual performed on each other which helps to strengthen bonds and calm nervousness.
5.) A chimpanzee is up to 7 times stronger than a human.
But wait, there’s more on the chimpanzee!
6.) Each night a chimp will rebuild their nest and change the location of said nest.
7.) Typically a chimp will walk on all four limbs. However, they are able to walk upright on their 2 legs.
Did you know…?
Chimpanzees in captivity have been successfully taught sign language.
8.) A female will give birth approximately every 3 – 4 years.
9.) When stricken with an illness, chimpanzees will typically tend to eat plants that have a medicinal value in an effort to heal themselves.
10.) Although typically gentle animals, a frightened or anxious male chimp, for example, is capable of incredible strength and a fierce ability to attack!
Now a Short Chimpanzee Video!
Learn more about all kinds of cool critters here.
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