Renowned Primatologist Jane Goodall Passes Away at 91
Dr. Jane Goodall, a pioneering primatologist, has passed away at the age of 91. The Jane Goodall Institute announced her death on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, citing natural causes. At the time of her passing, she was in California, fulfilling commitments during her U.S. speaking tour.
Legacy of a Renowned Primatologist
Born on April 3, 1934, Jane Goodall changed the field of ethology with her groundbreaking research. In July 1960, at just 26 years old, she commenced her studies on wild chimpanzees in Tanzania. Goodall’s observations revealed significant similarities between chimpanzees and humans.
Key Discoveries
- Chimpanzees communicate using gestures similar to humans.
- They demonstrate individual personalities.
- They create and use tools.
Goodall’s work showed that chimpanzees exhibit both nurturing and aggressive behaviors. In a 2020 interview, she reflected on the behavioral complexities of chimpanzees, noting their capacity for violence alongside their ability to express love and altruism.
Media Appearances and Advocacy
In 1965, Goodall featured in the CBS television special “Miss Goodall and the World of Chimpanzees.” This program highlighted her research in Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania, and brought global attention to the plight of these remarkable primates.
Apart from her research, Goodall was a staunch advocate for environmental conservation and animal welfare. She served as a United Nations Messenger of Peace, dedicating her life to the protection and restoration of the natural world.
Goodall’s contributions to science and conservation have left an enduring legacy. Her insights into the lives of chimpanzees not only transformed our understanding of them but also underscored the importance of protecting our planet’s biodiversity.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
