LONDON, UK – October 3, 2025 – Dr. Jane Goodall, the groundbreaking primatologist whose revolutionary work redefined our understanding of chimpanzees and inspired global conservation efforts, has died at the age of 91. The Jane Goodall Institute (JGI) announced on Wednesday that the renowned researcher and tireless animal advocate passed away due to natural causes, marking the end of an extraordinary life dedicated to science and advocacy. Her death leaves an immense void in the scientific community and among environmental activists worldwide.

Goodall's pioneering research, which began in Tanzania's Gombe Stream National Park in 1960, shattered conventional scientific methods and forever changed primatology. Her immersive approach, living among wild chimpanzees, allowed her to observe their complex behaviors with an intimacy previously unprecedented. These early observations challenged long-held beliefs about the uniqueness of humankind, particularly her discovery that chimpanzees craft and use tools – a trait once thought exclusively human.

A Legacy Forged in Gombe

Born in London, England, in 1934, Jane Goodall embarked on her seminal research journey in East Africa with little formal scientific training, under the mentorship of anthropologist Louis Leakey. Her fearless dedication to observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat led to profound insights into their social structures, emotional lives, and individual personalities. Goodall gave names to the chimpanzees she studied, such as David Greybeard and Fifi, a practice that humanized them and deepened public empathy.

Her findings, meticulously documented over decades, revealed that chimpanzees exhibit sophisticated communication, form complex family bonds, engage in warfare, and display a range of emotions strikingly similar to humans. This work not only revolutionized the field of primatology but also profoundly influenced broader scientific understanding of animal behavior and the evolutionary links between humans and other primates. Her ability to connect with the animals she studied, often without physical barriers, allowed for observations that remain unparalleled.

From Research to Global Advocacy

By the late 1980s, Goodall's focus expanded beyond pure research. A pivotal conference in 1986 highlighted the urgent threats faced by chimpanzee populations and their habitats, prompting her to dedicate her life to conservation and advocacy. She founded the Jane Goodall Institute in 1977, an organization committed to protecting chimpanzees and their habitats, as well as inspiring individuals to take action for a better world.

The JGI's work encompasses research, conservation, and humanitarian initiatives, most notably its "Roots & Shoots" program. Launched in 1991, Roots & Shoots empowers young people in over 100 countries to undertake community-based projects that address environmental, animal welfare, and human community issues. This global youth program reflects Goodall's belief in the power of individual action and the importance of fostering compassion in future generations.

"Dr. Goodall's unwavering dedication to understanding and protecting our closest living relatives has not only transformed scientific thought but has also ignited a global movement for conservation," stated Anna Peterson, CEO of the Jane Goodall Institute, in the announcement. "Her compassionate approach taught us that every individual matters and that we all have a role to play in building a sustainable future for all living things."

Enduring Influence and Tributes

Tributes have begun pouring in from around the globe, recognizing Goodall's monumental contributions. Scientists, conservationists, world leaders, and celebrities are remembering her as a visionary, a compassionate mentor, and a powerful voice for the natural world. Her books, documentaries, and countless lectures reached millions, translating complex scientific concepts into relatable narratives that inspired widespread environmental consciousness.

Goodall received numerous accolades throughout her life, including being appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II in 2004 and serving as a United Nations Messenger of Peace. Her legacy is not merely in the discoveries she made but in the profound shift she fostered in how humanity views its relationship with the animal kingdom and the planet. She consistently emphasized the interconnectedness of all life and urged humanity to live in harmony with nature.

The work of the Jane Goodall Institute will continue to honor her vision, carrying forward her mission to protect chimpanzees, other endangered species, and the environments they inhabit. Dr. Goodall's profound impact will resonate for generations, reminding us of the power of empathy, perseverance, and the urgent need to safeguard our shared planet.