The world mourns the death of renowned British zoologist Jane Goodall, who passed away at age 91 on 1st October 2025 (Wednesday). A celebrated figure in the conversation world, Jane’s death devastated fans, public figures and environmental advocates.
The Jane Goodall Institute announced the news through their social media pages, saying that the primatologist passed away due to natural causes. Jane was in California at the time of her death, as part of a speaking tour in the United States. In their post, the institute wrote about Jane, calling her “a tireless advocate for the protection and restoration of our natural world” and that her discoveries as an ethologist revolutionised science.
Jane was best known for her studies of wild chimpanzees. She was widely regarded as the world’s foremost expert on the species with over 60 years of experience. She was also one of the world’s most revered wildlife advocates who worked extensively on conservation and animal welfare issues. Until her death, she served on the board of the Nonhuman Rights Project, an American nonprofit organisation fighting for animal rights.
Many global agencies and world leaders have paid tribute to the zoologist, noting her influence in the animal rights movement. The United Nations shared about her death in a post that read, “Today, the UN family mourns the loss of Dr Jane Goodall. The scientist, conservationist and UN Messenger of Peace worked tirelessly for our planet and all its inhabitants, leaving an extraordinary legacy for humanity and nature.”
Former United States President, Barack Obama, also mourned the public figure, writing on Twitter, “Jane Goodall had a remarkable ability to inspire us to connect with the natural wonders of our world, and her groundbreaking work on primates and the importance of conservation opened doors for generations of women in science. Michelle and I are thinking of all those who loved and admired her.”
Jane’s legacy will be remembered for generations to come. We extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends and peers, and may the beloved figure rest in peace.
