Jane Goodall, Iconic Conservationist, Dies at 91 in California
UPDATE: Renowned primatologist and conservationist Jane Goodall has died at the age of 91, as confirmed by the Jane Goodall Institute this morning, October 1, 2025. Her passing occurred in California during her speaking tour in the United States, with officials stating she passed away due to natural causes.
This tragic news comes as the world mourns the loss of a pioneering figure who revolutionized the understanding of chimpanzees and their similarities to humans. The Jane Goodall Institute announced her death via social media, highlighting her legacy as a tireless advocate for the preservation and restoration of our planet.
Goodall’s groundbreaking research began at just 26 years old when she first entered Gombe National Park in Tanzania. Her discoveries revealed astonishing parallels between humans and primates, including complex social behaviors like communication and tool use. “Their behavior, with their gestures, kissing, embracing, holding hands and patting on the back, shows how like us they are,” she explained in a 2020 interview.
The challenges Goodall faced in her early research were formidable. With steep terrain and lurking wildlife, her pioneering spirit drove her to fulfill a lifelong dream amid adversity. “It was what I always dreamed of,” she recalled.
Goodall’s impact extended beyond the animal kingdom; she played a crucial role in inspiring women in STEM fields. The percentage of women in these careers surged from 7% to 26% over the past six decades, according to census data cited by the Jane Goodall Institute.
Throughout her life, Goodall remained a vocal advocate for environmental causes, raising alarms about the climate crisis. In 2019, she described the planet as “imperiled,” urging collective action. “We need to make something happen,” she emphasized, underscoring the urgency of addressing climate change.
In a notable partnership with Apple in 2022, Goodall advocated for device recycling, aiming to reduce individual carbon footprints and minimize mineral mining’s environmental impact. “It is possible to make money without destroying the planet,” she stated, highlighting the need for sustainable practices.
Goodall’s insights into the interconnectedness of human health and wildlife were especially poignant during the COVID-19 pandemic. She warned that humanity’s disrespect for nature had dire consequences, leading to increased cross-species transmission of viruses.
In a cultural tribute to her legacy, Mattel launched a special edition Barbie doll in 2022, commemorating the 62nd anniversary of her groundbreaking research in Gombe. “My entire career, I’ve wanted to help inspire kids to be curious and explore the world around them,” she remarked.
The Jane Goodall Institute, founded in 1977, remains the longest-running study of wild chimpanzees, continuing her mission to protect their natural habitats and prevent extinction.
As the world reflects on Goodall’s monumental contributions, her legacy as a champion for animals and the environment will undoubtedly inspire future generations to continue her vital work. The global community is urged to honor her memory by advocating for the natural world she dedicated her life to protecting.
