Jane Goodall, the renowned British primatologist and conservationist, passed away on October 1 at the age of 91. She died of natural causes in Los Angeles while on a speaking tour in the United States, as confirmed by the Jane Goodall Institute. Goodall was celebrated for her pioneering research on chimpanzees in East Africa, where she documented their complex social structures and tool use, fundamentally changing the understanding of primates and their relationship to humans.

Born in London in 1934, Goodall's fascination with animals began in childhood, inspired by books like "Tarzan of the Apes". In 1960, she began her groundbreaking studies at the Gombe Stream Chimpanzee Reserve in Tanzania, despite lacking formal scientific training. Her immersive approach allowed her to observe chimpanzees closely, leading to significant discoveries, including their ability to create and use tools, which challenged the belief that such behaviours were unique to humans.

Goodall's work gained international attention after a feature in National Geographic in 1963, which showcased her findings and personal experiences with the chimpanzees. She named individual chimps, such as "David Greybeard" and "Flo", a practice that drew both admiration and criticism for anthropomorphising the animals. Goodall argued that naming them helped highlight their individuality and emotional depth.

Throughout her life, Goodall was a passionate advocate for conservation and animal rights. She founded the Jane Goodall Institute in 1977 and initiated the Roots & Shoots programme in 1991, focusing on education and environmental protection. Her efforts earned her numerous accolades, including the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2025.

Goodall's legacy extends beyond her scientific contributions; she inspired generations through her public speaking and writings, promoting a message of hope and action in the face of environmental challenges. Tributes have poured in from around the world, reflecting on her profound impact on science and conservation. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called her a "Messenger of Peace", while others noted her relentless dedication to protecting life on Earth until her final days. Goodall's work will continue to influence future generations in the fields of primatology and environmental advocacy.