For as soon as, there’s excellent news in animal conservation. A inhabitants of Tonkin snub-nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus avunculus)—critically endangered primates with colourful faces and massive lips—is steady.
This information is especially welcome, given the truth that the funny-looking species isn’t simply critically endangered. Tonkin snub-nosed monkeys are among the many most endangered primates in existence. Most of the species are restricted to 2 main areas in northern Vietnam’s karst limestone peaks—Quan Ba Forest and Khau Ca Species and Habitat Conservation Area.
A brand new inhabitants census by the wildlife conservation charity Fauna & Flora verified that Tonkin snub-nosed monkey numbers within the Khau Ca Species and Habitat Conservation Area are steady. There are roughly 160 of those primates within the conservation space, in keeping with the newest census. The survey befell exterior of the species’ breeding season and noticed some infants.
Tonkin snub-nosed monkey census 2025
The 19-day survey noticed a collaboration between Fauna & Flora’s conservation group and local people teams and using technological and conventional instruments resembling binoculars, thermal imaging drones, and digicam traps. They additionally examined a new survey method. They turned the survey space into a grid map, and each survey group devoted itself fully to only one cell inside mentioned map. This made them extra environment friendly and prevented overlaps within the counting.
“These numbers still aren’t big. But it is reassuring that we have been able to identify various family groups in Khau Ca and that there is no evidence of trapping or hunting,” Canh Xuan Chu, Tonkin snub-nosed monkey undertaking supervisor at Fauna & Flora, mentioned in a assertion. “While poaching was once a key threat to the species, our biggest challenges today are habitat loss and deforestation, largely due to agricultural expansion. We are working with our government partners to increase protection of these conservation areas, while restoring wildlife corridors in which the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey can thrive.”
Walking on tree tops
While the newest whole inhabitants estimate for these primates was about 250, it doesn’t take an professional to know that that’s nonetheless a weak quantity. However, the Fauna & Flora conservation group in Vietnam is hopeful that the Tonkin snub-nosed monkeys are steadily making a comeback. This is the place animal conservationists may begin utilizing the time period “cautiously optimistic.”
“Since the project began, I have observed a significant increase in awareness among local communities regarding the conservation of the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey. People are now not only more conscious about protecting this endemic species of Vietnam, but also more aware of the importance of safeguarding forest habitats and other wildlife species,” mentioned Community Conservation Team member Tran Van On. “The project has also introduced a range of livelihood activities that provide additional income for local households, helping to reduce their dependence on forest resources.”
2025 PopSci Best of What’s New