Rank changes in female chimpanzees in Taï National Park

Female chimpanzees in Taï National Park exhibit dynamic dominance hierarchies, with at least six documented rank changes in two communities. Unlike their East African counterparts, who typically avoid competition and queue for rank, Taï females actively challenge dominant group members, possibly due to increased resource competition and predation risks. This study highlights a previously unrecognized flexibility in female chimpanzee social structures, adding complexity to our understanding of their dominance behaviors.

Mielke, A., Crockford, C., & Wittig, R. (2019). Rank changes in female chimpanzees in Taï National Park. The Chimpanzees of the Taï Forest, 290–300. https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108674218.019