In the pristine forests along the China-Vietnam border, a remarkable conservation story is unfolding.
Once thought extinct since the 1950s, the eastern black-crested gibbon, known locally as the Cao Vit Gibbon, has made a triumphant return to its natural habitat. Rediscovered at the turn of the century, this elusive primate now thrives thanks to an unprecedented cross-border collaboration between China and Vietnam.
The border regions of China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Vietnam’s Cao Bang Province are home to these rare gibbons. Recognizing the importance of preserving this critically endangered species, authorities from both nations joined forces, formulating joint conservation plans and conducting collaborative ecological surveys.
Through these concerted efforts, over 3,100 mu (approximately 205 hectares) of gibbon habitat have been restored. This rehabilitation has led to a significant increase in the gibbon population within the Chinese reserve, growing from 19 individuals at the time of rediscovery to 36 today—a testament to the success of the conservation initiatives.
The eastern black-crested gibbon is classified as a first-class state-protected wild animal in China and is listed as “Critically Endangered” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The cross-border cooperation serves as a pioneering model for biodiversity conservation, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in protecting endangered species.
This joint effort not only safeguards the future of the eastern black-crested gibbon but also strengthens the ecological bond between China and Vietnam. As these graceful primates swing through the treetops, they symbolize hope and the profound impact of unity in conservation.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
