When Jane Goodall released chimp she rescued from poachers, it did something so human-like before saying goodbye

Jane Goodall, the renowned conservationist, may have departed this world, but her profound impact on wildlife protection will inspire for generations to come. In her career, Goodall had countless beautiful memories, but one moment truly showed her deep connection with animals. On June 20th, 2013, she released Wounda, a chimp rescued from the bushmeat trade, into Tchindzoulou Island. Moments before starting her new journey, Wounda paused to offer Goodall a hug, as captured on camera. The video was shared on the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada's (@janegoodallcan) YouTube channel.

When Wounda was rescued, she was brought to the Jane Goodall Institute's Tchimpounga Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Center in the Republic of Congo in bad condition. In fact, she was half the weight she should have been and obviously was physically weak. The chimpanzee was so critical that people believed she wouldn't make it, and hence she was named Wound, "close to death." However, with proper care, she recovered, and after rehabilitation, she was released into Tchindzoulou Island to live a forever-happy life. "This is a really exciting moment for me. Here is Wounda, and she nearly died, but thanks to Rebeca (Dr. Rebeca Atencia), she came back from the dead, almost," Goodall said, moments before freeing Wounda. Later, when the chimp was safely taken out of the cage, she turned to leave, but then she suddenly stopped. Wounds turned back again, saw Goodall, and in the blink of an eye, pulled her in for a hug. She didn't speak a word, but her eyes revealed just how grateful the chimp was for the new life.

Chimpanzees, just like humans and many other animals, are capable of empathizing with others' emotional states. In fact, Chimpanzees cry when they experience grief, and laugh while playing — something we often believe is limited to human beings. Besides, Project R&R Release & Restitution for Chimpanzees found that they also experience joy, anger, jealousy, compassion, despair, affection, etc., just like us.

Reacting to the wholesome video, @light_worker commented, "My Goodness, what an inspirational woman. At her 80th, she still continues to save lives and bring light into this world. She is truly an Angel. She is an example of how we all must live our lives." @vampirepaigey wrote, "I wish one day I could work with the environment and actually be able to save animals daily. It would make my life complete."

@walterzeballos4292 wrote, "Mrs. Goodall, you are an inspiration to millions in this world. I wish there were many like you; this earth would definitely be a better place to live. Thanks for all your dedication, Mrs. Goodall. The world needs to know more about you and your efforts to protect and save these wonderful primates. This video moved me to tears... God bless you, Mrs. Goodall." @richardfeynmanrules said, "What a marvelous, touching video! I was so moved and happy for the dear chimp.  And what a great heart Jane Goodall has — look at the beauty in her face! She is surely one of the greatest naturalists of our time."

You can follow the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada (@janegoodallcan) on YouTube for more content on the chimpanzees. 

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