Eastern chimpanzee

The eastern chimpanzee, a subspecies of the common chimpanzee, inhabits the forests of Central Africa. There is ongoing scientific debate about whether this group should be divided into two subspecies due to regional variations, but one fact remains indisputable: they are in dire straits. These chimpanzees are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List, with their population declining due to habitat loss and hunting.

Visually, these chimpanzees are quite striking, covered in black fur and equipped with opposable thumbs and big toes, which make them adept at climbing and manipulating objects. In the wild, they typically weigh between 40 to 65 kilograms. They live in large communities ranging from 20 to over 150 members, showcasing their highly social nature.

Eastern chimpanzees are both arboreal and terrestrial, possessing a diverse diet that includes plants, fruits, insects, and occasionally small animals. They are also skilled tool users, employing sticks and stones for tasks such as hunting and protection.

Unfortunately, their habitat has been shrinking rapidly in recent years, making conservation efforts more crucial than ever to ensure these incredible creatures do not disappear from our world.