Zoologist Jane Goodall has ‘died of natural causes’ at the age of 91 years old.
The British native, best known for her work and studies of chimpanzees, had been in California as part of her US conference tour.
A statement from Jane Goodall Institute France confirmed the news, extending thoughts to Ms Goodall’s loved ones.
The statement said: ‘The Jane Goodall Institute learned this morning, Wednesday, October 1, 2025, of the death of Jane Goodall, Messenger of Peace to the United Nations and founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, of natural causes.
‘She was in California as part of her US conference tour. Ethologist Jane Goodall’s discoveries revolutionized science and she was a fervent advocate for the protection and restoration of our natural environment.’
They added: ‘Our thoughts are with her, her loved ones and everyone at the Jane Goodall Institute.’
Goodall was considered by many as the world’s leading chimpanzee expert, with her research of the primates starting out in east Africa when she was 26 years old.
Despite having no formal scientific training, she won over the trust of the primates which led to groundbreaking observations such as their ability to engage in complex social behaviours.
In 1977, the Jane Goodall Institute was established, which provided support for the Gombe (National Park) research. The institute boasts 19 offices worldwide.
The animal rights campaigner was married twice — first to Dutch photographer Baro Hugo van Lawick in 1964. The couple had one son, Hugo Eric Louis, before divorcing in 1974.
The following year, Goodall married Derek Bryceson, a member of the Tanzanian parliament and director of the country’s national parks.
Bryceson died of cancer in 1980.
Tributes have been pouring in online following news of Ms Goodall’s death, with one writing: ‘Rest in peace, Jane Goodall.
‘You taught us that kindness is a form of strength and that respect for life in all its forms is the truest measure of humanity. You will be dearly missed.’
Another added: ‘Rest in peace Jane a voice for animals, you’ll be missed.’
