Hunt History

Bonobos are mostly fruit-eaters, but they are not strict vegetarians. Despite their famously peaceful reputation, they do hunt and eat other animals — though their hunting is far less frequent and aggressive than that of common chimpanzees. The behavior appears to serve both nutritional and social purposes, reinforcing alliances and excitement within the group.

Here are a few well-documented examples:

Duiker Hunts (Small Forest Antelope):
Bonobos at Wamba in the Democratic Republic of Congo have been observed chasing and capturing blue duikers (Philantomba monticola). These hunts usually involve several individuals, with males taking the lead. After a successful kill, the group may share the carcass, often with social exchanges (like grooming or sexual behavior) surrounding the feast.

Colobus Monkey Predation:
In the LuiKotale field site, bonobos have been recorded hunting black-and-white colobus monkeys (Colobus angolensis). Unlike chimpanzees, which often plan and coordinate hunts, bonobo attacks seem more spontaneous—though still cooperative. Once caught, meat is shared, and begging behavior is common.

Flying Squirrels and Small Mammals:
Smaller prey like flying squirrels and anomalures (scaly-tailed squirrels) are also taken, usually by single bonobos. These hunts appear opportunistic, occurring during foraging when an animal is startled or discovered in a tree hollow.

Young Bush Babies and Rodents:
Isolated cases report bonobos raiding tree hollows to snatch galagos (bush babies) or rodents, often during evening hours when these nocturnal animals are resting.

Carnivory for Social Cohesion:
Studies show that meat-sharing events in bonobos often heighten social bonding. Females sometimes trade sexual favors for meat, reinforcing alliances. The hunt is not just about protein—it’s also about politics and pleasure.