Tributes have been pouring in for world-renowned conservationist Dr Jane Goodall, who passed away at the age of 91 on Wednesday. She died of natural causes while in California on a speaking tour of the US.

Goodall was known around the world for her 65-year study of wild chimpanzees in Gombe, Tanzania. However, in the latter part of her life, she expanded her focus and became a global advocate for human rights, animal welfare, species and environmental protection, and many other crucial issues.

The Jane Goodall Institute says Dr Jane was passionate about empowering young people to become involved in conservation and humanitarian projects, and she led many educational initiatives focused on both wild and captive chimpanzees.

She was always guided by her fascination with the mysteries of evolution, and her staunch belief in the fundamental need to respect all forms of life on Earth.

Throughout her life and remarkable career, Jane inspired generations of scientists, brought hope to countless people from all walks of life, and urged us all to remember that “every single one of us makes a difference every day – it is up to us as to the kind of difference we make.

Leading tributes to Goodall is Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio, who described her as a “true hero for the planet” and his “dear friend.”

In a post on his Instagram, DiCaprio shared a lengthy tribute, writing that “Jane Goodall devoted her life to protecting our planet and giving a voice to the wild animals and the ecosystems they inhabit. Her groundbreaking research on Chimpanzees in Tanzania transformed our understanding of how our closest relatives live, socialize, and think—reminding us that we are deeply connected not only to Chimpanzees and the other great apes, but to all life.”

“She spoke directly to the next generation, instilling hope, responsibility, and the belief that every individual can make a difference. She inspired millions to care, to act, and to hope. She never stopped.”

“My last message to Jane was simple: ‘You are my hero.’ Now, we all must carry the torch for her in protecting our one shared home.”

Celebrities, politicians, and activists from around the world have expressed their sadness at Dr Jane’s passing.

Former US President Joe Biden, who conferred the Medal of Freedom on Goodall, posted on X lauding how her “activism, vision, and message of hope mobilised a global movement to protect the planet.”

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said: “She is leaving an extraordinary legacy for humanity and our planet.”

The Founder of PETA, Ingrid Newkirk, says Goodall was “a gifted scientist and trailblazer who forever changed the way we view our fellow animals.”

“She leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, and we encourage everyone to follow in her animal-respecting footsteps.”