Are Western Chimpanzees a New Species of Pan?

What if I told you there were populations of chimpanzees that made spears to hunt, lived in caves, and loved playing in water?  These are behaviors usually associated with ancient humans, not chimpanzees.  However, recent research has revealed that there are populations of western chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) that engage in all of these behaviours, and it is challenging our current understanding of chimpanzee taxonomy.  Read More

Chimpanzee Trafficking: A Growing Threat

Chimpanzees face major anthropogenic threats.  However, a growing threat to their survival is great ape trafficking.  Live chimpanzees are worth $5,000-20,000 from zoos in North America, Europe, and Asia.  Furthermore, trafficking laws are rarely enforced in many African countries.  If the rates of trafficking continue to increase, chimpanzees may only be found in zoos within a few decades. 

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A True Environmentalist

Jane Goodall is well-know for her work with chimpanzees in Tanzania.  However, her work attempting to protect the environment and conserve all life has been her greatest contribution and gift to our species and planet.  Although she will always be known as a famous primatologist, she is also a true environmentalist.

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The State of Things

African great ape populations are facing several anthropogenic threats (e.g., hunting, disease transmission, habitat loss).  A recent study has revealed that habitat loss may be the most critical and is a far larger threat than previously believed by experts.  If the rate of habitat loss continues to increase, the African great apes may not see 2100. 

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Meeting With Jane

Jane Goodall has been a tremendous influence to me academically.  Her research inspired me to study chimpanzees, learn about human evolution and attempt to make a career for myself in academia.  Recently I had a chance to meet and speak with her and it was once of the most memorable events in my life  

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A Conservation Story Gone Bad

In a recent conservation documentary by the BBC the social dynamics between the Afar tribe and the baboons are explored.  Throughout the documentary conservation biologist Mat Pines attempts to build a positive relationship with the tribe but ends up failing to understand the root of the conflict.

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Among African Apes

What is it like to be a primatologist?  There are several misconceptions and many people are interested in our closest relatives, but few people know exactly what it's like to conduct a primate field survey.  Among African Apes transports you into the researchers world and introduces you to several important aspects of primatology.

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