Bonobo - Ecology & Habitat

Apes in the canopy

Bonobos use a variety of forest types including primary and secondary forests. High densities of this species are known in secondary forest on dry ground, and they are reported to spend much of their time in dense tropical forest canopy in search of food.

Social Structure
Bonobos are highly social animals, living in large communities of up to 120 individuals. Subgroups usually contain 2-15 individuals and are usually based on a female and her male offspring, and adult female associations. Groups of bonobos often forage together. Larger subgroups can be found close to food sources. Although there is extensive overlap between community ranges, subgroups tend to avoid each other. If they do come in contact, serious fighting may ensue.

Social relations within bonobo communities are largely affected by the species sexual behavior, which is used to manage and diffuse tension.

Life Cycle
Females reach sexual maturity at approximately 12 years of age. Their offspring have a black face and hands, with ears hidden behind whiskers. The young are cared for until they are four to five years old and females have between five and six offspring in a lifetime. Male offspring remain with the mother's group for life, whereas females leave the maternal group for another at maturity. The lifespan of bonobos is unknown.

Breeding
The gestation period is thought to be between 220 and 230 days. They normally give birth to a single young.

Diet
Fruits form the bulk of the bonobo's diet but leaves, pith, flowers, seeds and invertebrates are also eaten. Bonobos have been observed to eat small mammals, although unlike chimpanzees, they have rarely been observed to actively hunt for meat.