Social Networks Enhance Survival Rates for Chimpanzee Infants

A recent study conducted at Duke University reveals that social networks among female chimpanzees significantly impact the survival of their offspring. The research, which analyzed over three decades of behavioral data from Gombe National Park, found that female chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) who formed strong social ties with other females before giving birth were more likely to raise their young successfully. This finding emphasizes the importance of social integration in non-kin relationships, challenging previous assumptions about maternal support in primate survival.

The study, led by Joseph Feldblum, Assistant Research Professor of Evolutionary Anthropology at Duke University, was published in the journal iScience on June 18, 2025. Feldblum and his colleagues examined the social behaviors of 37 female chimpanzees and their 110 offspring, focusing on interactions such as grooming and proximity in the year leading up to childbirth. The results indicated that females with high social integration exhibited a 95% chance of their infants surviving the critical first year, compared to a 75% survival rate for those with lower social connectivity.

"In species where females live in groups with their sisters and mothers, it's less surprising that female sociality is beneficial," Feldblum explained. However, since female chimpanzees typically leave their maternal groups to form new social connections, the findings highlight the significance of friendships among non-kin.

The research team also investigated if close kinship or relationships with males contributed to the survival benefits, concluding that these factors had minimal influence. Instead, the key aspect was the strength of social relationships among females themselves. This suggests that forming bonds within the community provides essential support during pregnancy and early motherhood.

The implications of this study extend beyond chimpanzees, offering insights into human social structures. Feldblum noted, "We humans are remarkably collaborative and cooperative. Studying these social dynamics in chimpanzees can help us understand how we evolved to be the social, cooperative species we are today."

As the research indicates, the survival advantages linked to social networks may also relate to better access to resources and reduced stress levels during critical developmental periods. This underscores the need for further investigation into the mechanisms behind these social interactions and their impacts on reproductive success.

In conclusion, the findings present a compelling argument for the importance of social relationships in the animal kingdom, particularly for species like chimpanzees that do not rely on kin for support. As scientists continue to explore the evolutionary advantages of social structures, understanding the role of female friendships may provide crucial insights into both primate and human behaviors.

The study received funding from the Jane Goodall Institute and was supported by multiple grants from the National Science Foundation. The research team included experts from various institutions, contributing to a nuanced understanding of social dynamics in chimpanzees and their relevance to broader biological and anthropological studies.