Status: Endangered
Number Remaining: estimated 10,000 to 50,000
AverageHeight: 28-35 inches
Average Weight: 68-86 pounds
Bonobos share 98.7% on their DNA with humans, just like chimpanzees. However, unlike chimps, they are much smaller and much more peaceful. Groups of bonobos are lead by females and any conflicts are usually settled with sex. These primates can only be found in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Civil unrest and poaching are the two largest threats to the species. Parts of the bonobo are thought to have medicinal benefits and their meat is also sold for food. Due to internal conflict, it's difficult to enter the DRC and see the full effects of poaching on the bonobo population.
Civil unrest and poaching are the two largest threats to the species. Parts of the bonobo are thought to have medicinal benefits and their meat is also sold for food. Due to internal conflict, it's difficult to enter the DRC and see the full effects of poaching on the bonobo population.