A decade-long conflict between two factions of chimpanzees in Uganda's Kibale National Park has resulted in at least 21 deaths, according to a new study published in the journal Science. The research, led by 21 scientists, documents the first observed 'civil war' among wild chimpanzees, with the violence escalating since 2015.
The conflict began when a large community of over 200 chimpanzees split into two groups: the dominant Central tribe and the Western splinter group. Researchers observed the chimps planning attacks, launching raids, and killing both adults and infants. The violence has continued despite ample resources and no apparent ideological or territorial disputes, suggesting deep-rooted aggression.
The study highlights the absence of cultural or political factors typically associated with human warfare, raising questions about the evolutionary roots of conflict. Researchers note that the chimpanzees' behavior mirrors human tribal violence, potentially offering insights into the origins of human warfare.
The conflict has persisted for over a decade, with four additional killings reported since the study's publication. The full death toll is likely higher, as not all incidents may have been observed. Researchers remain uncertain about how the conflict will end, as such prolonged violence is rare among chimpanzees.
The findings challenge previous assumptions about the causes of warfare, suggesting that aggression may be an inherent trait rather than a learned behavior. The study underscores the need for further research into the evolutionary and genetic factors driving conflict in both humans and chimpanzees.