Apes are among the most fascinating animals on Earth. As our closest living relatives, they share remarkable similarities with humans—not only in genetics but also in intelligence, emotions, communication, and social behavior. Scientists continue to uncover new insights into the lives of great apes, revealing just how complex and adaptable these extraordinary animals truly are.

From creating new signs to solve communication problems to recognizing themselves in mirrors, apes constantly challenge our understanding of the animal kingdom. Here are some of the most interesting facts about these incredible primates, along with the science behind them.

Humans and Great Apes Share Remarkable Genetic Similarities

Chimpanzees and bonobos share approximately 98–99% of their DNA with humans, making them our closest living relatives. Gorillas and orangutans are also closely related, having evolved from common ancestors millions of years ago.

This genetic connection helps explain why apes display many human-like traits, including problem-solving abilities, emotional expression, tool use, and strong family relationships.

Apes Can Invent New Ways to Communicate

Although apes cannot produce human speech because of differences in their vocal anatomy, several individuals have learned hundreds of signs or symbols through research programs.

One of the most fascinating discoveries is that some apes combine known signs to describe unfamiliar objects. Rather than memorizing every possible word, they creatively form new expressions.

Researchers have documented examples such as:

• “White” + “Tiger” for a zebra
• “Ball” + “Beans” for peas
• “Sky” + “Dog” for a helicopter

While scientists continue to debate exactly how closely this resembles human language, these combinations demonstrate impressive cognitive flexibility and creative communication.

Bonobos Resolve Conflict Differently

Among the great apes, bonobos are known for their unusually peaceful social structure.

Instead of relying heavily on aggression, bonobos often use grooming, social bonding, and various affiliative behaviors to reduce tension within their groups.

Researchers have observed that these behaviors help maintain cooperation and reduce serious conflicts, making bonobos one of the most socially tolerant primate species studied to date.

Humans Are the Greatest Threat to Wild Apes

Unlike many wild animals, adult great apes have relatively few natural predators.

Today, the biggest threats to their survival include:

• Habitat destruction
• Illegal wildlife trade
• Logging
• Mining
• Agricultural expansion
• Infectious diseases introduced through human contact

According to conservation organizations, all great ape species face varying levels of conservation concern, making habitat protection and anti-poaching efforts increasingly important.

Apes Share Human Blood Groups

Great apes possess the familiar ABO blood group system found in humans.

Chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans may have blood types A, B, AB, or O.

Although this similarity is scientifically interesting, it does not mean blood transfusions between humans and apes are considered safe or medically appropriate due to numerous additional biological and immune-system differences.

Apes Can Catch Some Human Illnesses

Because humans and great apes are so closely related genetically, many infectious diseases can spread between the two.

Respiratory illnesses are among the greatest concerns. Viruses that cause common colds, influenza, and pneumonia in humans can seriously affect wild ape populations.

For this reason, wildlife researchers and ecotourists often follow strict health protocols when visiting ape habitats, including wearing masks and maintaining safe distances.

Their Arms Are Built for Life in the Trees

One of the easiest ways to recognize an ape is by its unusually long arms.

Their bodies are specially adapted for climbing, swinging, and moving through forest canopies.

Orangutans, for example, may stand around four feet tall yet possess an arm span approaching eight feet, allowing them to move efficiently among tree branches while conserving energy.

Young Female Apes Learn Parenting by Watching Others

Like humans, many parenting behaviors are learned through observation.

Zoo researchers have discovered that female gorillas raised without seeing experienced mothers sometimes struggle with newborn care.

Modern breeding programs often allow young females to remain with family groups longer so they can observe experienced mothers nursing, carrying, and caring for infants before raising their own offspring.

Every Ape Has Unique Fingerprints

Fingerprints are not exclusive to humans.

Chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans all possess distinctive fingerprints unique to each individual.

Koalas are another surprising species known to have fingerprint patterns remarkably similar to those of humans.

Scientists believe these specialized ridges improve grip when climbing and handling objects.

Apes Use Tools in Remarkable Ways

Wild chimpanzees have been observed:

• Fishing for termites using sticks.
• Cracking nuts with carefully selected stones.
• Using leaves as drinking sponges.
• Fashioning simple tools for gathering food.

Different ape communities often develop unique techniques, suggesting that some tool-use traditions are passed between generations through learning rather than instinct alone.

Great Apes Display Complex Emotions

Researchers have documented behaviors suggesting that apes experience a wide range of emotions.

They may comfort distressed companions, celebrate reunions, cooperate during challenging tasks, and even appear to grieve the loss of close group members.

While scientists remain careful about interpreting animal emotions, decades of behavioral research indicate that great apes possess sophisticated social intelligence.

Apes Can Recognize Themselves in Mirrors

Mirror self-recognition is considered an important indicator of self-awareness.

Chimpanzees, bonobos, orangutans, and some gorillas have successfully passed mirror recognition tests by inspecting marks placed on parts of their bodies they could only see through a reflection.

Only a small number of animal species have demonstrated this ability.

Conservation Efforts Matter More Than Ever

Many ape populations continue to decline due to habitat loss, illegal hunting, disease, and climate-related pressures.

Conservation organizations work to protect forests, rescue orphaned apes, reduce illegal wildlife trade, and educate local communities about sustainable coexistence.

Responsible tourism, habitat preservation, and support for accredited wildlife organizations all contribute to protecting these remarkable animals for future generations.

Why Apes Continue to Fascinate Scientists

The more researchers learn about apes, the more they reveal about our own evolutionary history.

Their intelligence, communication, family bonds, emotional complexity, and ability to adapt remind us that humans are deeply connected to the natural world.

Studying apes not only helps conserve endangered species but also provides valuable insight into the origins of language, cooperation, learning, and social behavior.

As research continues, these extraordinary primates will undoubtedly teach us even more about the remarkable similarities—and unique differences—that connect humans with our closest living relatives.

Sources

• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
• Smithsonian National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute
• Jane Goodall Institute
• Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
• National Geographic
• American Museum of Natural History