A DAY MONITORING DELACOUR’S LANGURS IN HUONG SON SPECIAL-USE FOREST

The Delacour’s langur (Trachypithecus delacouri), is an endemic primate species found exclusively in the limestone ecosystems of northern Vietnam, such as Hương Sơn Special Use Forest (Hanoi), Kim Bảng Protection Forest and Vân Long Wetland Nature Reserve (Ninh Bình).

Listed as Critically Endangered (CR) in Vietnam’s Red Data Book (2024) and the IUCN Red List, it ranks among the top 25 most endangered primate species globally.

Characterized by its sleek black fur, white cheeks, and distinctive white fur around its rear resembling a “white shorts”, the Delacour’s langur is a symbol of biodiversity in Vietnam’s limestone ecosystem. However, it currently faces significant threats to its survival.

As part of ongoing conservation efforts, Center for Nature Conservation and Development (CCD) has implemented numerous activities, including research, enhanced patrolling, monitoring, and community outreach programs aimed at raising public awareness.

One key initiative is the establishment of the community-based monitoring team, which has been a focal point of CCD’s strategy. They are physically fit, knowledgeable about the forest, and, importantly, familiar with the habits of the Delacour’s langur. This team conducts monthly patrols to record information about the langur’s distribution, behavior, and activity, contributing to the development of effective conservation strategies and recovery plans for the species.