INTRODUCTION Because bonobos look very similar to chimpanzees and both species equally share nearly 99% of their DNA with humans, they possess many human-like qualities. Bonobos also possess different physical qualities than chimpanzees, being generally darker and thinner. Bonobo society is usually led by females with a peaceful tendency, which makes them different from most of their related species. Their etymology tells us that their scientific name is Pan paniscus, of the genus Pan (Balcombe 2011). Although bonobos were previously known as pygmy chimpanzees, there is speculation as to where the name originated. Some believe the name describes their unusual small size compared to chimpanzees while others derive it from the area in which they live which is also populated by pygmy populations (Groves 2005). BEHAVIOR Being small is not the only attribute that makes the bonobo unique. They are popularly known for their behavior as a society: social, sexual-social, diet, tranquility and resemblance to humans (Groves 2005). According to Frans de Waal, a Dutch primatologist and ethologist, bonobos can understand and experience a range of emotions including patience, kindness, sensitivity, compassion and altruism. In addition to their ability to experience these emotions, bonobo society is known for being a “gynecocracy,” meaning it is run primarily by female leadership (de Waal 2013). In this primate society, female bonobos tend to hold higher social ranks than males. . It is not often that there is an aggressive encounter between both sexes. Social hierarchies exist within bonobo society but they do not play a prominent role compared to other related primate societies. Males within society tend to… middle of paper… bitat have contributed to bonobo poaching and deforestation. Although the true size of the bonobo population is relatively unknown, it has been declining over the past thirty years. Researchers deduce that the decline will continue to occur for the next forty-five to fifty years. This is especially true due to the low reproductive rate and increasing threats of bonobos (Palagi 2013). CONCLUSION Many things are being done to help conserve the bonobo population. Many organizations are creating communities to promote habitat protection, support law enforcement, and monitor the slow growth of bonobo populations. Since the bonobo is the second closest species to humans, organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund are carrying out multiple efforts to spread awareness and promote the conservation of this endangered species..