Ladies, did you know that the world of wildlife research, especially of primates, includes several women whose contributions are still remembered today? Three of them are Jane Goodall, Dian Fossey, and Biruté Galdikas, known as The Trimates.
All three were researchers supported by anthropologist Louis Leakey to study the lives of great apes in their natural habitats. Even though they studied different species, their observations had a major impact on scientific knowledge and wildlife conservation efforts.
So, who are the figures behind The Trimates and what are their contributions?
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<h2 class="fw-bold fs-5">1. Jane Goodall, Peneliti yang Menjelajahi Perilaku Simpanse</h2>
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<img src="https://akcdn.detik.net.id/visual/2026/11/03/jane-goodall-peneliti-yang-mengungkap-perilaku-simpansefoto-voguecom-1793694654674.jpeg?w=700&q=90" alt title/>
<p>Jane Goodall, Peneliti yang Menjelajahi Perilaku Simpanse/Foto: Vogue.com</p>
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<p>Dame Valerie Jane Morris‑Goodall, known as Jane Goodall, is a British primatologist and anthropologist recognized worldwide as a leading expert on chimpanzees. According to the <em>Jane Goodall Institute</em>, her research on wild chimpanzees began in 1960 at Gombe, Tanzania. At the age of 26, she conducted the study with the support of anthropologist Louis Leakey.</p>
One of her most notable discoveries was the observation that chimpanzees can make and use tools. This finding altered scientists’ understanding of animal behavior because the ability to use tools had previously been considered a characteristic unique to humans.
The woman born on 3 April 1934 also introduced a closer observational approach to individual chimpanzee lives. She gave names to the animals she studied and examined their personalities, emotions, and social relationships.
After years of research, Jane became actively involved in wildlife and environmental protection. She founded the Jane Goodall Institute in 1977 and the Roots & Shoots program in 1991 to encourage young people’s participation in conservation activities.
2. Dian Fossey, Wanita yang Mengabdikan Hidupnya untuk Gorila Gunung
Dian Fossey, Wanita yang Mengabdikan Hidupnya untuk Gorila Gunung/Foto: National Geographic
According to The Gorilla Organization, Dian Fossey, born on 16 January 1932, began studying mountain gorillas in the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda in 1967. She subsequently founded the Karisoke Research Center as a site for research and observation of gorilla life in their natural habitat.
Over the years, Dian studied the behavior, social relationships, and group life of mountain gorillas. She also worked to change public perceptions that had long regarded gorillas as fierce and frightening animals.
However, her concern for mountain gorillas extended beyond research. Dian advocated for protecting them from poaching and habitat destruction. After her beloved gorilla, Digit, was killed by poachers, Dian even established the Digit Fund to support anti‑poaching patrols.
Dian passed away in 1985 at her research center in Rwanda. Nonetheless, the gorilla protection efforts she initiated continue through conservation organizations that have grown from her legacy.
3. Biruté Galdikas, Peneliti yang Mempelajari Orangutan di Kalimantan
Biruté Galdikas, Peneliti yang Mempelajari Orangutan di Kalimantan /Foto: Orangutan Conservancy
Unlike Jane and Dian, Biruté Galdikas chose orangutans as her research subjects. According to National Geographic, the woman whose full name is Birutė Marija Filomena Galdikas arrived in Tanjung Puting, Kalimantan, in 1971 to begin a long‑term study of wild orangutans.
She established Camp Leakey, a research camp named in honor of Louis Leakey. From there, Biruté observed orangutan life, from feeding habits and moving between locations to their behavior of building nests in trees.
In addition to research, Biruté was active in orangutan rescue and rehabilitation efforts. In 1986, she founded the Orangutan Foundation International (OFI) to support the protection of orangutans and their forest habitats.
Biruté passed away on 24 March 2026. Through her research and conservation work spanning over five decades, she left a significant contribution to the understanding and protection of orangutans, especially in Kalimantan.
The stories of Jane Goodall, Dian Fossey, and Biruté Galdikas illustrate that scientific research not only generates new knowledge but can also drive change in how humans treat nature. Through their dedication, the world gained a broader understanding of primate life and a reminder of the importance of preserving their habitats.
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