A new population census of one of the world’s most endangered primates, the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey, has confirmed that numbers are stable in a small forest area known as Khau Ca in northern Vietnam – a stronghold for the rare animal.
Led by researchers from Fauna & Flora, the results from the survey suggest there are around 160 individuals living in the forest, which lies among a series of karst limestone peaks in the country’s Ha Giang Province. The overall population of the species is thought to be around 250.
With large pink lips, an upturned nose, pastel-blue face and a long tail, the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey is an extraordinarily striking animal, yet it is rarely seen. In fact, several decades ago, it was believed to be on the brink of extinction – largely due to poaching, habitat loss and deforestation – until a small population of around 50 individuals was discovered in 2002 by researchers from Fauna & Flora’s Vietnam team.
Today, the population is still precariously small, but it is slowly rebounding.
“These numbers still aren’t big,” says Canh Xuan Chu, Tonkin snub-nosed monkey project manager at Fauna & Flora. “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.
“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.”
The survey took 10 days to complete. Working alongside local community groups, Fauna & Flora’s conservation team used thermal imaging drones, camera traps and sound detectors, as well as traditional observation methods to locate and record the primates.
A particularly poignant moment during the survey was the sighting of three infants, spotted with their families. These extended family groups, which include an adult male, several females and offspring, often come together to sleep or feed.
Tran Van On, a community conservation team member, says the involvement of local communities is vital for the monkey’s recovery: “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.
“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.”
Top image: Tonkin snub-nosed monkey family. Credit: Nguyen Quyet Tam / Fauna & Flora
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