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Also called the pygmy chimp, the bonobo is slightly smaller than the common chimpanzee. Sharing more than 98% of its DNA with humans, the bonobo is our closest living relative. Like humans, bonobos live in family groups and are highly intelligent. They often stand upright on two feet as we do.

bonobo sitting in the green trees

Did You Know?

Apes, Not Monkeys: Bonobos, along with chimpanzees, orangutans, and gorillas, are great apes.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Pan paniscus

Range:
Democratic Republic of the Congo

Habitat:
Tropical rainforest

Height:
2.3 to 2.8 ft

Lifespan:
31 yrs

Zoo Location:
Jungle Trails

Diet:
Fruit, seeds, leaves, flowers, fungi, eggs, and small animals

Risk Status:
Species at Risk (IUCN—Endangered)