Bonobos, A Close Human Relative Nearly Extinct

[Astronuc]

A close relative to the chimpanzee that is thought to be the closest human relative may be on the verge of extinction, scientists say.

Bonobos, or pygmy chimpanzees, have been hunted so extensively that their survival is at risk, warn officials at the World Wildlife Fund.

"The world could soon lose the primate species that shares the greatest genetic connection to humans," said Richard Carroll, a primatologist and director of WWF's Central Africa program. "Bonobos are fascinating creatures and little understood. They have the only great ape society led by females, with a sophisticated social structure that encourages cooperation and peace and settles disputes through sex."

http://www.livescience.com/animalworld/041227_bonobo_risk.html

[Orstio]

Bonobos are indeed fascinating, and it is very sad that their demise seems imminent.

On top of poaching, the threats of disease and human warfare (Congo and Rwanda) contribute to their diminishment.