The Bonobo (Pan paniscus) is one of the 
four African Great Apes and our closest 
relative, as we share over 98% of the same 
genes, as well as many behavioral patterns 
(de Waal, 1995).  Bipedal and diurnal, they are 
similar to a chimpanzee in appearance but with smaller 
ears, a flatter face,and darker skin, the smaller 
bonobo exists in a society very different than that 
of the more aggressive chimp (Videan, 2001).  
Bonobos are extremely smart,as they are tops
 in learning sign language among the Great Apes 
(Chargot, 2002).  

Bonobos are unique among non-human
primates, most notably because of their social 
structure and sexual behavioral patterns (Block,
2002).  While very interesting, the bonobo is one 
of the most recently discovered, and thus least
studied mammals.  Bonobos are also endangered, 
as researchers estimate only 10,000-20,000 exist
in the wild, and about 100 in zoos around the world
(Chargot, 2002).  

Please explore this site and learn about this 
unique species.  This site is produced by Andy
Countryman to meet specific requirements for 
Psychology 323, Animal Behavior, at Davidson 
College, Davidson, NC.  Please direct questions
and comments to me via the contact page, or 
contact Verna Case via e-mail at
vecase@davidson.edu.