Field Partner
The Center for Technology and Nature Conservation (CTNC) conducts research and applies technology in natural resource management, livelihoods, and sustainable development in Vietnam. CTNC is leading the study and protection of these endangered primates and has recently discovered previously unknown new groups of these primates. It is critically important to study and protect these populations.
Location
The Annamite Range runs along the border of Vietnam and Laos, stretching from northern to central Vietnam. This rugged, forested mountain range is one of Southeast Asia’s most important biodiversity hotspots, home to unique ecosystems and many species found nowhere else on Earth. Its remote, dense forests provide critical habitat for some of the world’s most endangered primates. CTNC’s efforts target three forests outlined in the map below.
Red-shanked Douc (Pygathrix nemaeus) in in Hai Van Pass Photo: CTNC
The black-shanked douc
Native to the lowland and montane forests of southern Vietnam and eastern Cambodia, black-shanked doucs are truly endemic. Illegal hunting for bushmeat and traditional medicine continues to threaten remaining populations, even within protected areas. In some areas, populations have dropped by over 50% in the past few decades. If we don’t act now, this species could vanish within our lifetime.
When you protect the douc...
…you’re protecting biodiversity, climate stability, and people. Investing in the protection of the Black-shanked douc langur benefits entire ecosystems, which are home to countless species, natural carbon sinks, and vital watersheds for local
communities.
Fewer than 1,000 black-shanked doucs remain in the wild.
Key Actions to Protect Endangered Primates
- SMART Patrol and Wildlife Monitoring Training: Train 30–40 rangers in SMART tools and primate monitoring techniques.
- Ongoing Ranger Support: Provide continued technical assistance, patrol planning, data management, and adaptive management support.
- Equipment Support: Supply ranger stations with SMART-equipped phones and laptops, including training on data processing.
- Community Awareness & Outreach:
- Broadcast wildlife protection messages via local radio.
- Host a school awareness event and donate conservation-themed books.
- Research: Conduct research on the population, distribution, and threats to the black-shanked douc langur to guide conservation efforts.
Protecting Irreplaceable Wildlife
Species like the black-shanked douc langur and southern yellow-cheeked crested gibbon exist nowhere else on Earth. They are beautiful, intelligent, and socially complex animals whose ancient lineages stretch back millions of years. Yet these forests are vanishing. Rampant deforestation, poaching, and illegal wildlife trade are driving these species toward extinction.
Without urgent intervention, we may lose them in our lifetime.
