Did the World Just Lose a Legendary Primatologist in Jane Goodall?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Dr. Jane Goodall passed away at the age of 91, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.
- She was known for her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees in Tanzania.
- Goodall was a passionate advocate for conservation and environmental protection.
- Her work transformed the field of primatology and influenced countless conservation efforts.
- Goodall's commitment to animal welfare and ecosystems continues to inspire future generations.
New Delhi, Oct 2 (NationPress) Tributes flooded in on Thursday as the globe grieved the passing of the iconic primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall, who departed this life at the age of 91 due to natural causes in California, where she was engaged in a series of speaking events in the US.
A message shared on her Facebook page revealed, "The Jane Goodall Institute has received news this morning, Wednesday, October 1, 2025, that Dr. Jane Goodall DBE, UN Messenger of Peace and Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, has passed away due to natural causes."
"Dr. Goodall’s groundbreaking work as an ethologist has transformed science, and she was an unwavering advocate for the conservation and restoration of our natural environment," the announcement stated.
The loss of the globally recognized British primatologist, celebrated for her trailblazing research on chimpanzees and relentless environmental advocacy, left a profound impact on conservation initiatives around the world, eliciting mourning from many.
In a post on X, the United Nations expressed its sorrow over Goodall's death and emphasized the legacy she has left behind.
"Today, the UN family mourns the passing of Dr. Jane Goodall. The scientist, conservationist, and UN Messenger of Peace dedicated herself to our planet and its inhabitants, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy for humanity and nature," the organization remarked.
Actor Leonardo DiCaprio, who shared a deep bond with Dr. Goodall based on their mutual commitment to animal conservation, expressed his sorrow in a touching note, stating, "Today we have lost a true hero for the planet, an inspiration to millions, and a dear friend."
The Oscar-winning actor continued, "Jane Goodall devoted her life to safeguarding our planet and advocating for the wildlife and ecosystems they inhabit. Her innovative research on chimpanzees in Tanzania reshaped our understanding of how our closest relatives live, socialize, and think—reminding us that we are profoundly connected not only to chimpanzees and other great apes but to all forms of life."
Dr. Goodall’s passing was also commemorated by Encyclopaedia Britannica, which shared a tribute on X, noting that the primatologist was among the few individuals globally to attain a Ph.D. without an undergraduate degree, which ultimately proved advantageous.
"It was believed that her absence of formal academic training would permit her to remain free from traditional biases and study the chimps with an unbiased perspective. And it worked," Encyclopaedia Britannica commented on X, alongside a picture of Dr. Goodall.
Dr. Goodall continued her active engagement in her field until just days before her death, remaining busy with her speaking tour across the US when she passed away.