Jane Goodall: Heir to a Heroine and the Truth About Chimpanzees

Jane Goodall: Heir to a Heroine and the Truth About Chimpanzees

On October 2, 2025, world-renowned primate researcher Jane Goodall, whose groundbreaking observations revolutionized the understanding of animal intelligence, died. Goodall became famous for her research in Gombe Stream National Park, where in 1964 she documented a remarkable chimpanzee behavior: tool use. Chimpanzees stick sticks into termite burrows and prepare branches to get food. This discovery not only kept people but also science in suspense and led to a far-reaching rethink about the definition of tool use in animals and their intelligence.

Science has reclassified tool use in animals, particularly primates. It was once thought to be exclusively human, but it is now clear that many species, including chimpanzees and orangutans, use complex tools to improve their way of life. Researchers found historical evidence that chimpanzees were using tools to crack nuts as early as 4,300 years ago, supporting the assumption of a long tradition in this area reports Planet Wissen.

Emotions and intelligence in animals

Goodall's research goes beyond tool use, however. She also observed emotional behaviors in chimpanzees, such as hugging and sadness. These observations make it possible to better understand the social and emotional intelligence of animals. Scientists have found that chimpanzees are able not only to solve problems, but also to transfer their experiences to new situations, highlighting their high social intelligence explains Planet Knowledge.

The findings about tool use in animals are not new. As early as the 20th century, researchers like Wolfgang Köhler discovered that chimpanzees were also able to interact with objects in order to actively shape their environment. The definition of tool use includes the use of inanimate objects to change the position or shape of another object explains Wikipedia.

Reactions to Jane Goodall's death

The news of Jane Goodall's death sparked sadness around the world. UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his sadness at the loss of this extraordinary figure, described as a “hero for the planet”. Former US Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden honored her influence and tireless commitment to environmental protection.

Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio called Goodall a “true heroine for the planet” and an “inspiration to millions.” Ingrid Newkirk, the founder of Peta, said Goodall changed the perception of animals forever. Her legacy will continue to inspire research and activism as the world looks beyond the boundaries of human behavior.