Primates in Peril

A report released on Friday by Conservation International and the International Primatological Society warns that almost one-third of the world's 394 primate species are in danger of extinction. Habitat destruction, commercial sale of their meat, and illegal wildlife trade are contributing to the threatened extinction of 114 different species of apes, monkeys, and other primates. Climate change is also being cited as a contributor to primate vulnerability because of its ability to alter smaller habitats.

Africa and Asia have seen the largest increase of endangered species of primates, due primarily to the clearing of tropical forests for agriculture, logging and wood for fuel. Subsistence and commercial hunting, as well as capture of animals for the pet trade, have also contributed to the endangerment of primates. In Vietnam alone, four species of primates have been essentially decimated as a result of their being hunted for their meat and bones, according to a World Wildlife Fund biologist stationed there.

The risk of extinction can be reversed, however, with proper conservation measures. Since the last report was issued in 2004, nine species of primates have been removed from the list because their populations have increased as a result of conservation efforts. A complete list of the most endangered species and their countries of origin is maintained by the National Geographic Society at http://news.nationalgeographic.com.