PANO – A population of pygathrix cinerea has been found in central province of Quang Nam, flaring hope for the survival of this exceptional species.

“Seldom have we spotted such a large group of animals, especially ones on the edge of extinction, in such a small place,” said Barney Long, Coordinator of the Central Truong Son Landscape Conservation Department under the WWF Greater Mekong in Vietnam.

The discovery came during a recent survey in woods of Que Phuoc district, Quang Nam. The team of scientists and experts saw 116 pygathrix cinerea individuals. According to their estimates, there could be as many as 180 there, and possibly more in adjacent woods.

The pygathrix cinerea, which is found in 5 central provinces, is one of the 25 most endangered langur species listed in the Red Book. Scientists believe that there are only about 1,000 individuals in the world.

Reports from the World Conservation Union claim that up to 65% of primate species in Vietnam are in danger or extreme danger.

Translated by Thu Nguyen