With the closeness in genetic makeup there are many reasons why chimps continue to fascinate and enthrall thousands of people throughout the year. The close social units are similar to groups see in human communities. The great intelligence and problem solving abilities of chimps can provide insight into the abilities of early man.
Even with several common traits with man, chimps are still typically wild animals. They have been kept as pets throughout the world. One reason for this can be for the enjoyment of the human companion. Another reason is for the safety and protection of the animal.
Before and beyond any similarities between chimps and man is the fact that these animals are just that, animals. Because of this, their behaviors can be unpredictable at times and this can have deadly consequences.
Physical Makeup of Chimps
Chimps are usually covered with hair except for their face, hands, and feet. It is typical for young chimps to have light colored faces that will darken as the individual ages. Their arms which are longer than their legs are utilized when walking on the ground. Chimps can walk erect, especially when holding or carrying objects.
They can range in height from about four to five and a half feet while standing on two legs. Chimps can weight between seventy and one hundred and thirty pounds in the wild. In comparison to some other apes, chimps have broader feet that provide some benefit while walking on the ground.
Diet of Chimps
Like humans, in general, chimps are omnivore or opportunistic eaters. They have a wide range of food they will eat although they may have a favorite or preferred item. Chimps typically rest at night in trees where they have some safety from predators below. At first light they become active and begin searching for food.
Chimps usually dine on leaves and fruit on the trees near them. They also will eat seeds that they locate. With the hundreds of foods chimps eat, it was noted they will enjoy insects, bird eggs, and meat from local animals when available.
Habitat of Chimps
Chimps can live in large groups in the rain forest or wet savannas. These large groups offer protection from predators and rivals. Even though chimps are capable of walking on the ground, a lot of time is spent in the trees. The trees offer safety as well but also provide food sources with less competition in comparison to what can be found on the ground.
Man’s closest relative still has a lot of mystery and secret surrounding their behaviors and interests. With the threat of ever decreasing land suitable for the chimps to survive the future of these majestic animals is unknown. Regardless of their immense strength, it may be that their great intelligence helps them to survive in a changing world.
Source:
"Chimpanzees" (2009). National Geographic website. Retrieved November 13, 2009
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