| Chimpanzee | |||
| Genus | Pan | ||
| Species | troglodytes | ||
| Status | Endangered in wild; Threatened in captivity | ||
| Habitat | Forest, rainforest, open woodlands, and grasslands | ||
| Distribution | Western and central Africa | ||
| Height | 24-48 inches (61-122 cm) | ||
| Weight | 55-110 pounds (25-50 kg) | ||
| Behavior |
Chimps are very intelligent creatures, and often make facial expressions similar to those of humans. Because the chimp's overall structure and behavior so resemble our own, they are generally considered man's closest living relative. In the wild, the chimpanzee lives in groups of up to forty animals, consisting of several females and their children. Mothers remain close to their daughters throughout their entire lives. Sons and brothers protect their relatives against chimpanzee bullies.
Chimpanzees are one of the few animals that make their own tools. They have been observed stripping leaves off twigs and then using the twigs to pull termites out of a den! | ||
| Diet | Fruits, insects, seeds, sometimes meat | ||
| Communication | Chimps have loud voices, which they use to make many noises, including roars, screams, and grunts. They sometimes even drum on tree trunks. | ||
| Conservation | Thousands of chimpanzees have been removed from their homes in the wild to be used to laboratories, sold to the entertainment industry, or kept as pets. Today, most chimps are dying from habitat loss to loggers and farmers. New laws have been passed, however, to protect this endangered animal. The greatest hope for them now are the few national parks that remain to protect their welfare. | ||
| Interesting Facts | Chimps have similar body organs to those of human beings and can suffer from the same diseases. This is why they are often used to test new machines or medicines. | ||
| Images and Video Clips | |||
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| Sound Snippet | |||
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1) Chaotic chattering!! | |||
| Animal Communication Panel | |||
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