African Wildlife - Chimpanzee (Pan Troglodytes)
The Chimpanzee is mostly located in the tropical forests of western
and central Africa and has been placed on the endangered specie
list. They can grow to a size of up to two meters and a weight
of up to 89 kg. The Chimpanzee has a life expectancy of 30 to
40 years in the wild and 45 to 55 years in captivity. They are
omnivores, feeding on fruits, leaves, seeds, stems, bark, insects
and meat.
Female Chimpanzee reach sexual maturity at the age of six to
ten years with males reaching sexual maturity between the ages
of seven and eight years. Gestation usually takes between 230
and 240 days. Similar to humans, mother Chimpanzees often create
lifelong relationships with their offspring.
Chimpanzees are very sociable primates using their facial expressions,
vocalizations, body language, grooming and even kisses and pats
to communicate. The 'pout face' expression is typically a sign
of anxiety or frustration. This expression is also associated
with begging and temper tantrums in juveniles. It has also been
found that Chimpanzees use a medicinal plants to treat themselves
for illness and injury.
African Wildlife Paintings by South African Artist
