Ecological Conservation and Scientific Achievements Behind the Population Growth of Shennongjia Golden Snub-Nosed Monkeys

Recently, heavy snow fell in Shennongjia National Park. Over 10 photographers from Chongqing, Hubei, Heilongjiang, and other provinces braved the cold to enter the Dalongtan Golden Snub-Nosed Monkey Research Base in Shennongjia National Park, adjacent to Chongqing’s Wushan County. They unveiled the mysterious lives of the golden snub-nosed monkeys, a first-class nationally protected species as rare as giant pandas through their lenses.

The cool climate, abundant rainfall, and frequent snowfall in winter and spring seasons in Shennongjia have created an ideal habitat for the survival and reproduction of golden snub-nosed monkeys. The towering mountains and unique geographical environment of the reserve further enhance this sanctuary. Among its features, the golden fur of Shennongjia’s golden snub-nosed monkeys leaves a lasting impression.

Through years of relentless efforts by wildlife conservationists and continuous improvements to the local ecological environment, effective protection measures have been implemented for the golden snub-nosed monkeys in Shennongjia. Li Shuhang, a manager at the Dalongtan Research Base, shared survey data indicating that there are currently 11 golden snub-nosed monkey populations in Shennongjia, totaling 1,618 individuals, with a habitat area of 401 square kilometers. Compared to 1990, the number of populations has increased by 6 (an 83% growth rate), the population size has risen by 1,117 individuals (a 223% increase), and the habitat area has expanded by 237 square kilometers (a 145% growth). Since 2019, one new population has been recorded, with 147 additional individuals and a habitat expansion of 47 square kilometers.

This area serves as a critical habitat for Shennongjia’s golden snub-nosed monkeys. Dense forests, ample rainfall, and diverse plant species all together provide abundant food resources favored by the monkeys.

However, Shennongjia’s average elevation of 1,700 meters brings harsh winters. Temperatures plummet, vegetation withers, and food sources for the monkeys sharply decline. Heavy snowfall blankets the ground, making foraging extremely challenging. With winters lasting up to six months, some elderly or weak ones may succumb to food shortages and extreme cold. Therefore, artificial feeding becomes a vital measure to ensure their survival during this period.

Golden snub-nosed monkeys exhibit a unique social structure, typically consisting of 10 to 20 family units. Each family is led by one male and several females, resembling an ancient “polygynous” system. These timid and alert primates historically fled upon detecting human presence, often nesting in trees within old-growth forests to sleep huddled together.