The Bonobo

The bonobo (also sometimes known as the pygmy chimpanzee; scientific name pan paniscus) is a species that inhabits the forests of the area of the Democratic Republic of Congo south of the Congo River. It can stand between 28 to 35 inches tall, and it can weigh between 68 to 86 pounds. It is closely related to its fellow great ape the chimpanzee in that they look very similar and share 98.7% of their DNA with humans. However, they differ in that the former tends to be darker, leaner, and smaller, and its groups tend to be female-led and more peaceful, as it settles conflicts and maintains relationships through sexual activities. Despite this, it may still engage in serious fighting if its group encounters another group.

The bonobo is classified as an Endangered species. It is this close to becoming extinct for two reasons. The first reason is that much of its population is poached for its meat, as this can be used for food and trade, and its body parts, as these can be used to create traditional medicines, as well as to enhance sexual vigor and strength. Because of this, one of the World Wildlife Fund's (WWF's) efforts to save it consists of providing training, improved transportation, and various field equipment to the antipoaching units in Salonga National Park, one of its protected areas. The second reason is that much of its habitat is being destroyed. Because of this, another one of the WWF's efforts to save it consists of establishing the Lac Tumba-Lediima Nature Reserve, which houses its population with the highest density and largest group size.

Source for picture and all information: https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/bonobo