How do chimpanzees reproduce?

Chimpanzees reproduce through the process of sexual intercourse between a male and a female. The female carries the fetuses in her uterus for approximately 8 months. When the baby chimpanzees are born, they are helpless and must be carried by the mother for the first 2 months of their lives.

The age of sexual maturity occurs between 10 and 13 years old. Females have a 2-year period in which they mate, but do not conceive. Reproduction occurs about every 5 years. This gives the females a chance to raise and wean their previous offspring before they become pregnant again. Chimpanzees nurse for 5 years before the mother begins the weaning process. The bond between a mother chimp and her babies lasts for life.