Deadly Split Rocks Chimpanzee Community in Kibale National Park
A long studied chimpanzee community in Kibale National Park has split into two rival groups, triggering deadly conflict among members.
Researchers from the Makerere University Biological Field Station say the Ngogo community, once known for its size and cooperation, began showing signs of division around 2015.
By 2018, the group had fully separated into two factions, known as the Western and Central groups.
The split triggered organized patrols and targeted attacks, with males from the Western group carrying out most of the violence.
The conflict has killed at least 28 chimpanzees, including infants.
Scientists link the violence to the loss of key dominant males, rising competition within the large group, and environmental pressure on resources.
The conflict now raises new questions about social stability and behavior among highly intelligent primates.
