Tributes are pouring in for the “tireless advocate” Dame Jane Goodall, who has died aged 91, after dedicating her life to bettering human understanding of animal behavior.
The world-renowned British primatologist and conservationist died of natural causes in Los Angeles, California, while on a speaking tour in the United States, according to the institute she founded.
“Dr. Goodall’s discoveries as an ethologist revolutionized science, and she was a tireless advocate for the protection and restoration of our natural world,” the Jane Goodall Institute said in a post on social media.
Former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau is among those to have paid tribute to Dr Goodall, saying he was “heartbroken” to hear of her death.
In a statement on X, posted alongside a picture of them planting a tree together, Mr Trudeau said: “She was a pioneer whose research and advocacy reshaped our understanding of the natural world.”
Goodall was still traveling relentlessly in her nineties, campaigning for the wider natural world and warning of the perils of climate change.
In the 1960s, her research on the behavior of chimpanzees in Tanzania discovered that our closest living relatives were a lot more like us than previously believed.
Goodall also founded an environmental and humanitarian program called Roots & Shoots, wrote books on conservation, and became the subject of more than 40 films and documentaries.
In 2002, she was designated a United Nations Messenger of Peace, helping draw global attention to environmental issues.
Tributes pour in after Jane Goodall's death
- 'Tireless advocate' Jane Goodall dies at age 91
- Trudeau says pioneering conservationist 'reshaped our understanding of natural world'
- UN mourns loss of world-renowned primatologist
- Zoos and conservation groups post tributes to Goodall's work
- Goodall received the Presidential Medal of Freedom earlier this year
- Encyclopaedia Britannica remembers Goodall's remarkable academic achievement
Goodall was 'a giant of animal protection movement', Cruelty Free International says
23:30 , Tara CobhamCruelty Free International, the world's leading organisation working to end animal testing, has described Dr Jane Goodall as “a giant of the animal protection movement”.
CEO Michelle Thew said: “Cruelty Free International is deeply saddened by the passing of Dame Jane Goodall, with whom we worked to protect primates in laboratories. Dr Goodall was a giant of the animal protection movement who made a historic and lasting difference to how the world recognises the value of our closest living relatives. We thank her for her astonishing dedication to a lifetime of work and send our sincere condolences to her friends and family.
“Dr Goodall, an outstanding visionary, shared our view that experimenting upon chimpanzees, baboons and other monkeys is inhumane, and recognised how similar their emotions are to humans, sharing a similar capacity for both mental and physical suffering. Her work has achieved so much in helping us to end the suffering of primates in the name of science, highlighting the need to focus on humane and human-relevant science – a cause we will continue to champion until animal testing is consigned to the history books.”
Former president Joe Biden and wife Jill 'deeply saddened'
23:17 , Joe MiddletonFormer US president Joe Biden and his wife Jill have said they are “deeply saddened” by the death of Jane Goodall.
Jill and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jane Goodall whose activism, vision, and message of hope mobilized a global movement to protect the planet. Above all, Jane taught us that when we search for humanity in the natural world around us, we discover it within…
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) October 1, 2025
Harry and Meghan pay tribute to Dame Jane Goodall
23:11 , Joe MiddletonThe Duke and Duchess of Sussex have paid tribute to conservationist and chimpanzee expert Dame Jane Goodall following her death at the age of 91, describing her as “a visionary humanitarian, scientist, friend to the planet, and friend to us”.
Dame Jane, who was the world’s leading expert on chimpanzee behaviour and defender of their habitat, was in California on a speaking tour when she died from “natural causes”.
Harry, who forged a close bond with the famed primatologist, recalled in a joint statement with Meghan on Wednesday how Dame Jane held their son Prince Archie as a newborn baby and “showered love and care to those who were privileged to know her”.
Peta to plant monkey puzzle tree in memory of Goodall
23:00 , Tara CobhamAnimal rights group Peta (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) has announced it will plant a monkey puzzle tree in the memorial garden at its headquarters in honour of conservationist Dame Jane Goodall.
Founder Ingrid Newkirk paid tribute to the primatologist and said: “A long and fine life led. Jane Goodall was a gifted scientist and trailblazer who forever changed the way we view our fellow animals.
“We could always count on her to be on the animals’ side, whether she was urging UPS to stop shipping hunting trophies, calling for SeaWorld’s closure, or a shutdown of the Oregon National Primate Research Center.
“She leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, and we encourage everyone to follow in her animal-respecting footsteps, starting with going vegan.”
Packard pays tribute to Goodall as 'source of profound hope for future of our planet'
22:30 , Tara CobhamJulie Packard has paid tribute to “remarkable” Dr. Jane Goodall who was “a source of profound hope for the future of our planet”.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium posted a message from its executive director Packard on Instagram, reading: “Dr. Jane Goodall was a remarkable individual—as a scientist, as an advocate for wildlife and wild places, and as a source of profound hope for the future of our planet. She brought such a joyful spirit and unfailing optimism to her work. Most importantly, she recognized that—together—we can make a real difference through our actions, large and small.
“I mourn her passing and celebrate her life. It was an honor to know and work with Dr. Goodall. Her legacy will live on, in the lives of the millions of people she inspired.”
Goodall 'broke barriers for women all over the world', DeGeneres says
22:00 , Tara CobhamUS comedian Ellen DeGeneres said primatologist Dame Jane Goodall “broke barriers for women all over the world”.
The former chat show host shared a video to Instagram of an interview she conducted with Dame Jane, who has died at the age of 91.
In the caption, DeGeneres said: “Thank you Jane for all the good you’ve done. You broke barriers for women all over the world.”
Goodall was 'one of history’s greatest moral voices for animals'
21:50 , Tara CobhamAnimal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy have paid tribute to Dr Jane Goodall as “one of history’s greatest moral voices for animals” who spent “a lifetime devoted to promoting better understanding of animals”.
“Jane Goodall taught us first to understand animals,” said Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy. “She alerted us that animals are like us in so many ways. Then, in the last third of her life, she taught us to act with conscience toward all animals.”
Tamara Drake, director of research and regulatory policy at the Center for a Humane Economy, said: “Dr. Goodall’s voice was relentless — she knew that progress depends on both science and morality. We carry forward her conviction by advocating for modern, humane testing strategies that spare animals needless suffering and yield better outcomes for people.”
Watch: Listen to Jane Goodall's iconic chimpanzee greeting
21:40 , Tara CobhamPackham pays tribute to 'remarkable' and 'revolutionary' Goodall
21:30 , Tara CobhamNaturalist and TV presenter Chris Packham paid tribute to Dame Jane Goodall, calling the late conservationist “remarkable” and her work as “revolutionary”.
Speaking to BBC News, Mr Packham said Dame Jane “was up against it” when she began her career.
“It (her work) was revolutionary and she approached it in a very different way at the time,” Mr Packham said.
“Let’s not forget that this was the late 1950s, early 60s. She was a woman in science, and she was a woman in science without an undergraduate degree, so she was up against it as it was.
“She nevertheless immersed herself in that society and that gave her the capacity to identify traits within those animals, to learn their personalities and know them as individuals.”
He added: “She was remarkable, and it spoke of that determination which endured throughout the course of her life, because here, at the age of 91 on a speaking tour, still advocating for life on Earth in her calm, calculated, deliberate way, capturing the ears of everyone from children to politicians, to make sure that we can do everything we can to protect life on Earth in a time of crisis.”
Asked how Dame Jane inspired him, Mr Packham said: “I read Jane Goodall’s books, and I put those people on a pedestal. I worshiped what they did.
“You know, they were enormously inspirational. They were heroes. Frankly, that’s what they were. They were absolute heroes. And to have lost a hero at a time when we need all of them on the front line fighting for the future of life on Earth, it is a tragedy.”
Goodall 'featured in controversial The Far Side cartoon that sparked friendship'
21:20 , Tara CobhamIt has emerged that Jane Goodall featured in one of The Far Side’s most controversial cartoons – before leading to a lifelong friendship.
The Far Side was created by cartoonist Gary Larson and has achieved legendary status as an unusual but entertaining comic strip, which found a home in the San Francisco Chronicle from 1980.
But one of its cartoons featuring Goodall, released in 1987, was not warmly received initially, according to Screen Rant. It showed a male and a female chimpanzee sitting on a tree, with the female picking hairs off the male and saying: “Well, well –another blond hair. Conducting a little more ‘research’ with that Jane Goodall tramp?”
The Jane Goodall Institute reportedly drafted a cease and desist letter in response – but Goodall herself loved it, and told the institute to drop the issue. She even reached out to Larson, sparking the beginning of a friendship.
Watch: Prince Harry and Jane Goodall demonstrate chimpanzee greeting
21:10 , Tara CobhamGreenpeace remembers Goodall as 'tireless advocate'
21:05 , Tara CobhamGreenpeace has remembered Dame Jane Goodall as a “tireless advocate” following her death at the age of 91.
In a statement to the PA news agency, the organisation’s co-executive director in the UK, Will McCallum, said: “We’re heartbroken to learn that Dr Jane Goodall has passed away. She was one of the true conservation giants of our time.
“We were lucky enough to host her at the Greenpeace Glastonbury field last year, where she charmed the audience with her vast knowledge of our primate cousins’ lives.
“Not only did her pioneering research transform our understanding of chimpanzees and their habitat, but she became a tireless advocate for the protection of wildlife and forests, inspiring millions to act.
“Dr Goodall’s legacy is not only in science but in the global movement she helped spark to protect nature and give hope for a better world.
“It’s now incumbent upon all of us to honour her legacy by continuing the fight to protect the world’s forests.”
Goodall featured in The Independent’s Climate 100 List this year and last
21:00 , Tara CobhamDame Jane Goodall featured in The Independent’s Climate 100 List this year and last year.
The second edition of the list was released last month in recognition of the people and companies dedicated to finding positive climate solutions.
Read about all the inspirational people solving the planet’s greatest challenges below:
'Heartbroken' Trudeau says Goodall's 'compassion will live on' in future conservation
20:50 , Tara CobhamFormer Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau said he was “heartbroken” to hear of Dame Jane Goodall’s death, saying “her compassion will live on” in future conservation.
In a statement on X, posted alongside a picture of himself and the conservationist planting a tree together, Mr Trudeau said: “Heartbroken to hear of Dr Jane Goodall’s passing. She was a pioneer whose research and advocacy reshaped our understanding of the natural world.
“Her wisdom and compassion will live on in every act of conservation. All of us who were so greatly inspired by her will miss her deeply.”
Heartbroken to hear of Dr. Jane Goodall’s passing. She was a pioneer whose research and advocacy reshaped our understanding of the natural world. Her wisdom and compassion will live on in every act of conservation. All of us who were so greatly inspired by her will miss her… pic.twitter.com/NM5HEyftzJ
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) October 1, 2025
Jane Goodall spoke with The Independent in 2020
20:38 , Julia MustoAt the height of the Covid pandemic, The Independent's senior climate correspondent Louise Boyle spoke with Dr. Jane Goodall, then 86, via phone in the U.K., where she was temporarily grounded from her typical 300-day a year travel schedule.
"I have never been busier in my entire life, except perhaps the last days of trying to get my PhD thesis written," she said.
You can read her thoughts on the pandemic and how she understood its connection to our treatment of the natural world and wild animals, in the interview below.
Jane Goodall calls for global ban on wildlife trade and end to 'destructive period of human history'
Goodall received the Presidential Medal of Freedom earlier this year
20:31 , Julia Musto
Dr. Jane Goodall was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January by then-U.S. President Joe Biden.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the United States’ highest civilian honor.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom,” Goodall said in a statement.
“This recognition reflects the hope and action of so many people who inspire and motivate me every day in the firm belief that together we can and we must save the natural world for ourselves and future generations.”
Zoos, conservation groups post tributes to Goodall's work
20:26 , Julia MustoWe are heartbroken to hear of the passing of Jane Goodall today. Jane’s conservation work was groundbreaking. She was a tireless advocate for the protection of our natural world.
— Oakland Zoo (@oakzoo) October 1, 2025
We join all of those who were inspired by Jane’s work in honoring this pioneering, remarkable human. pic.twitter.com/B8blbPw03V
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Jane Goodall, a groundbreaking primatologist and tireless conservationist. Her pioneering work with chimpanzees transformed our understanding of the species, and her lifelong advocacy inspired generations to protect wildlife and their…
— Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund (@SavingGorillas) October 1, 2025
We are devastated at the news that conservationist Jane Goodall has passed away. She spent her life advocating for chimpanzees and all wildlife. Her goal was to help people understand the true nature of animals and that each individual animal is important.
— San Antonio Zoo 🦍 (@SanAntonioZoo) October 1, 2025
While her work,… pic.twitter.com/vGE1ZEoP1H
We remember and honor the remarkable life of Dr. Jane Goodall.
— Saint Louis Science Center (@STLScienceCtr) October 1, 2025
Her visit to the Saint Louis Science Center during Becoming Jane was a moment we’ll never forget. Her legacy of compassion, curiosity, and conservation will continue to inspire generations.
Thank you, Dr. Goodall. pic.twitter.com/rRzaJbmEaf
Encyclopaedia Britannica remembers Goodall's remarkable academic achievement
20:22 , Julia MustoJane Goodall was one of a few people to earn a PhD without an undergraduate degree.
— Encyclopaedia Britannica (@Britannica) October 1, 2025
It was thought that her lack of formal academic training would allow her to remain unbiased by traditional thought and study the chimps with an open mind.
It worked. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/3eCi2oDTJ8
American composer Philip Glass says Goodall was 'driven by passion'
20:21 , Julia MustoIn memory of Jane Goodall, a pioneer of science and environmentalism, whose life was driven by passion for knowledge about the world and nature. She will be missed
— Philip Glass (@philipglass) October 1, 2025
Photo: National Geographic / Stewart Volland pic.twitter.com/wh3u9eodry
Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he's 'heartbroken'
20:18 , Julia MustoHeartbroken to hear of Dr. Jane Goodall’s passing. She was a pioneer whose research and advocacy reshaped our understanding of the natural world. Her wisdom and compassion will live on in every act of conservation. All of us who were so greatly inspired by her will miss her… pic.twitter.com/NM5HEyftzJ
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) October 1, 2025
Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes posts tribute to Goodall from behind bars
20:16 , Julia MustoRest in Peace Jane Goodall. You inspired so many women to push the boundaries of what we were allowed to do. You inspired me in so many ways to make this world a better place. Thank you for all that you did.
— Elizabeth Holmes (@ElizabethHolmes) October 1, 2025
You taught me, long before I knew your name, that true innovation… pic.twitter.com/ecJuBDLNkP
The Jane Goodall Institute remembers its founder
20:11 , Julia MustoColorado Governor Jared Polis pays tribute to Goodall: She 'broke barriers'
20:08 , Julia MustoDr. Jane Goodall (@JaneGoodallInst) broke barriers and inspired generations of girls to become scientists. Jane Goodall is an icon who spent her entire life learning more about the world around her and fighting to protect it. Jane brought all of us along on her quest to learn… pic.twitter.com/mCESuRP3WU
— Governor Jared Polis (@GovofCO) October 1, 2025
Fmr. California First Lady remembers Goodall as a 'legendary figure'
20:06 , Julia MustoJane Goodall was a legendary figure and a friend. I admired her, learned from her, and was so honored to get to spend time with her over the years. She stayed at her mission and on her mission. She changed the world and the lives of everyone she impacted. The world lost one of… pic.twitter.com/P0n5wk1Cpm
— Maria Shriver (@mariashriver) October 1, 2025
'Daily Show' host Jon Stewart reacts to Goodall's death: She 'was just the best'
20:04 , Julia MustoJane Goodall was just the best…damn.
— Jon Stewart (@jonstewart) October 1, 2025
The United Nations mourns the loss of Dr. Jane Goodall
19:57 , Julia MustoToday, the UN family mourns the loss of Dr. Jane Goodall.
— United Nations (@UN) October 1, 2025
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. pic.twitter.com/C0VMRdKufF
Jane Goodall, pioneering conservationist, dies at age 91
19:57 , Julia Musto
Dr. Jane Goodall, a world-renowned primatologist and champion of the environment, has passed away due to natural causes.
She was in California on a speaking tour, according to the Jane Goodall Institute.
“Dr. Goodall’s discoveries as an ethologist revolutionized science, and she was a tireless advocate for the protection and restoration of our natural world,” the institute said in a post on social media.
