№ 16 of 100
Hainan Gibbon
Nomascus hainanus
The world's rarest primate sings dawn duets in one patch of forest on a single Chinese island.
- Range
- China
- Region
- Asia
- Habitat
- A few square kilometres of montane rainforest in Bawangling, Hainan Island
The story
Reduced to fewer than ten individuals in the 1970s, the Hainan gibbon has clawed their way back to around 42 animals in five family groups. Rangers monitor every gibbon by their song, and canopy rope bridges built after a landslide reconnected the forest the gibbons travel through.
What's killing them
- Historic logging and hunting
- Single tiny population
- Typhoon damage to forest corridors
Who's fighting for them
Kadoorie FarmKadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden
Fauna & FloraFauna & Flora International
ZSL EDGEZoological Society of London — EDGE of Existence
Logos are the property of their respective organisations and link to their official sites.
Quick answers
How many Hainan Gibbons are left in the world?
Approximately ~42. The Hainan Gibbon (Nomascus hainanus) is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and their population trend is recovering. Figures are estimates compiled from the IUCN Red List and conservation organisations.
Where does the Hainan Gibbon live?
The Hainan Gibbon is found in China (Asia). Their habitat: A few square kilometres of montane rainforest in Bawangling, Hainan Island.
Why is the Hainan Gibbon endangered?
The main threats to the Hainan Gibbon are: Historic logging and hunting; Single tiny population; Typhoon damage to forest corridors.
Who is working to save the Hainan Gibbon?
Organisations working on Hainan Gibbon conservation include Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden; Fauna & Flora International; Zoological Society of London — EDGE of Existence.