Ken(1) You did a lot of fieldwork, observing chimpanzees in the wild. Are they in any way like humans?

Jane(2) Chimps and humans have a lot in common, sharing 98.6 percent of DNA. Their brains are very much like ours and much of their behavior is like ours. (3) The members of a chimp family are very close, often helping one another. They can feel sad, happy, afraid, and angry.

KenWhat about their character—I mean, are they friendly? Are they cruel?

JaneThey are usually friendly, but they can be cruel, just like humans.

KenReally?

JaneThe males sometimes attack chimps from another community to protect their territories. But they can be very kind and loving too. Once, when he was about three years old, a chimp called Mel lost his mother and was left alone. We all thought he'd die. But, to our surprise, a 12-year-old male chimp called Spindle took care of him.

KenIn what way?

JaneMel would ride on his back and share his nest at night. He shared his food if Mel asked for it. Chimps can indeed be loving and caring.