Golden snub-nosed monkey  (Rhinopithecus roxellana)

It was once thought that the fur of Rhinopithecus species could prevent rheumatism, and Manchu officials were the only people allowed to wear the pelts. Hunting for the pelts continues to this day, and other parts of the monkeys are used in traditional medicines (2). These monkeys are also hunted for their meat (4). Furthermore, habitat loss is a great and on-going problem (1).

Research into this endearing primate is underway. Hopes are that the more we learn about the habits and ecology of this species, the more likely it will be that successful conservation programmes can be devised (5).