A chimpanzee is a highly intelligent ape that lives in the forests and grasslands of central Africa. Chimpanzees are humans' closest living relatives in the animal kingdom: we share about 98% of our DNA with them, which helps explain why they look and act surprisingly similar to us in many ways.

Chimpanzees live in communities of up to 150 members, with complex social structures and relationships. They use tools in sophisticated ways: they fish for termites using sticks, crack nuts with stones, and even use leaves as sponges to soak up drinking water. They communicate through gestures, facial expressions, and dozens of different vocalizations. Young chimps learn from watching their mothers and other adults, just as human children do.

An adult male chimpanzee stands about four to five feet tall and can be surprisingly strong, several times stronger than an adult human. They walk on all fours, using their knuckles to support their weight, though they can walk upright for short distances. Chimps are omnivores, eating mostly fruit but also leaves, insects, and occasionally smaller animals.

Scientists like Jane Goodall have spent decades studying wild chimpanzees, discovering that these remarkable animals have personalities, form friendships, use strategy, and even experience emotions like grief and joy. The word chimpanzee is often shortened to chimp in everyday conversation.