№ 29 of 100
Cao-vit Gibbon
Nomascus nasutus
The world's second-rarest ape lives in one patch of limestone forest on the Vietnam–China border.
- Range
- VietnamChina
- Region
- Asia
- Habitat
- Karst limestone forest straddling the Vietnam–China border
The story
Thought extinct for 40 years until rediscovered in 2002, the cao-vit gibbon survives in a single transboundary forest. Drone thermal surveys recently revised the population to about 135 animals, and both countries now manage a joint protected area around the species' last stronghold.
What's killing them
- Historic hunting
- Firewood cutting and grazing in forest
- Single tiny population
Who's fighting for them
Fauna & FloraFauna & Flora International
IUCN Red ListInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — Species Survival Commission
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Quick answers
How many Cao-vit Gibbons are left in the world?
Approximately ~135. The Cao-vit Gibbon (Nomascus nasutus) is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and their population trend is stable. Figures are estimates compiled from the IUCN Red List and conservation organisations.
Where does the Cao-vit Gibbon live?
The Cao-vit Gibbon is found in Vietnam, China (Asia). Their habitat: Karst limestone forest straddling the Vietnam–China border.
Why is the Cao-vit Gibbon endangered?
The main threats to the Cao-vit Gibbon are: Historic hunting; Firewood cutting and grazing in forest; Single tiny population.
Who is working to save the Cao-vit Gibbon?
Organisations working on Cao-vit Gibbon conservation include Fauna & Flora International; International Union for Conservation of Nature — Species Survival Commission.