The chimp scientist

Dr Jane Goodall began observing and studying chimpanzees of the Gombe Stream in Tanzania more than 30 years ago. At that time, people thought that it was not scientific to talk about an animal's mind or personality. 30 years ago, people thought of science as experiments that men in white coats conducted in labs.

Dr Goodall made detailed observations while she watched the chimpanzees subjects carefully. Hence, she used her own abbreviations and note-taking style that were designed to be understood easily. It took Dr Goodall almost 4 years to collect a significant amount of information. The chimpanzees were hard to find and resisted her presence. But, soon they came to trust her-this was a key observation. Goodall recorded their every move, interaction, gesture and grunt. She found that chimpanzees are caring, clever and capable of lasting attachments. Through years,  she also found that some individuals are capable of extreme aggression, even cannabalism.

Goodall observed over and over the ability of chimps not only to use tools, but also able to recognise a need for them and make one ahead of time. Because of Jane Goodall's long-term study and careful observations, we are able to construct our understanding of the true nature of chimpanzees. This knowledge is important because the chimpanzee is the closest living relative of the human species. LEarning more about chimpanzees makes it possible to learn more about our common evolutionary heritage.