Yunnan Black Snub-Nosed Monkey

Overview

Rhinopithecus bieti, commonly known as Yunnan Black Snub-Nosed Monkey (滇金丝猴) or Black Golden Monkey (黑金丝猴), is a large black-and-white primate endemic to southern Yunnan Province (云南省), China. These monkeys inhabit high-altitude coniferous and mixed forests, making them the highest-dwelling primates besides humans.

Physical Characteristics

• Large body with thick, relatively short tail
• Gray-black fur on dorsal areas, limbs, and tail
• Pale grayish-white face with pinkish tinge
• Distinctive thick, bright red lips
• Striking appearance against snowy mountain forests

Habitat & Diet

Primary Habitat:

• Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve (白马雪山国家级自然保护区), Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州)
• Yunlong Tianchi National Nature Reserve (云龙天池国家级自然保护区)

Diet: Primarily arboreal lichens (especially Usnea), abundantly available in their range

Conservation Status

Threats:

• Habitat loss and fragmentation

Protection Measures:

• Classified as National First-Class Protected Animal (国家一级保护动物)
• Ecological corridor restoration projects (e.g., in Yunlong Tianchi (云龙天池))
• International conservation attention

Population: 320 individuals (2024 survey), showing recovery trends

Ecological Significance

As both:

• Flagship species for Yunnan (云南) ecosystems
• Important symbol for biodiversity conservation

Ongoing research aims to better understand their ecological requirements and ensure long-term survival through habitat protection.