Chimpanzees are brave animals, standing about 4 to 5 feet tall when upright. Sometimes, they are seen walking like humans for almost a kilometer. Their weight ranges from 130 to 200 pounds.
Even though they may look small, scientists say chimpanzees are about 1.5 to 2 times stronger than the average human. Their daily life of swinging from tree to tree, holding onto branches, and moving through rough ground helps increase their strength.
Do not be surprised if you see a chimp in Kibale, Budongo, or Nyungwe National Parks carrying a heavy object weighing about 68 to 91 kilograms. Their strong bodies allow them to do so with ease.
Chimpanzees can be dangerous to humans if provoked. They have large, sharp canine teeth and can cause deep and serious wounds when they bite. They may even try to amputate fingers by pulling and pushing with great force.
It is said that even a strong human fighter would struggle against a chimpanzee because of their natural power and instincts. Chimps have a high number of fast-twitch muscles, which allow them to make quick and powerful movements, while humans have more slow-twitch muscles, which are better for endurance.
Chimpanzees can cause serious injuries with just their arms. If they hit someone or grab with force, they can dislocate joints. On one occasion, a chimpanzee grabbed a ranger’s arm, and by the time help came, the arm was already badly injured.
Chimpanzees often target important parts of the body. There have been many reports of people losing ears, lips, noses, genitals, and even limbs after chimp attacks. In the wild, if provoked, chimps can become very dangerous and aggressive. They use their arms and legs to slam, hit, and drag their opponents.
Their strength comes from how they have evolved and adapted to their way of life—climbing, swinging in trees, and searching for food in hard environments. Always walk with your guide and never go alone when entering forests where chimpanzees live.
However, chimpanzees can be calm animals if you follow the rules and instructions given at the start of your chimpanzee trekking tour.
Visit Kibale National Park in Uganda with these recommended Uganda chimpanzee companies or inquire with us below to book your tour directly through this website.
