LIFE Apes
LIFE: Apes
Our Simian Family • We’re not quite ready to invite them for Thanksgiving, but humans have other ways to show their love.
The Great Apes • They’re just like us! Kind of. Chimpanzees, gorillas, bonobos, and orangutans have a lot in common—and a lot of their own mojo.
Graceful and Gangly Gibbons • They’re fast-moving, high-flying, and musical. Some people call them a lesser ape—but not to their face.
Other Primates, Other Beauties • As these stories and spectacular photos show, the many species of monkey (lemurs, galagos, tarsiers, and lorises) are colorful—and charismatic.
How Smart Are They? • Apes can use tools, and sometimes get their point across, but can they beat you at Scrabble?
The Rise of Humans • The journey from apes to Homo sapiens has spanned millions of years and featured a range of species along the way.
Simians of Cinema • Tarzan, King Kong, Planet of the Apes—Hollywood has hyped up some hairy hominids.
LIFE Bookazines
LIFE: Apes Photo Credits
Saving Apes • Many ape species are critically endangered—on the verge of extinction. Here are some of the groups dedicated to researching apes and protecting their dwindling habitats.
Mother Love