International Primate Day
Every year on September 1, we celebrate International Primate Day with the aim of ending monkey experimentation for disease research and protecting wild primate conservation and habitat. More than a third of all primates are regarded as Critically Endangered or Threatened, according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Black-and-White Ruffed Lemurs
These lemurs are Critically Endangered and live in the rainforests of eastern Madagascar. Their selective diet makes them vulnerable to changes in their environment. They face hunting and habitat loss and fragmentation.
Chimpanzees
Chimpanzees are listed as Endangered by the IUCN, and are found primarily in the forests of central Africa. Their greatest threat is habitat loss and fragmentation.
Mongoose Lemurs
Mongoose lemurs are Critically Endangered and live in the deciduous forests of Madagascar. Habitat destruction and hunting for food are the main threats that face this species.
Squirrel Monkeys
Squirrel monkeys inhabit a relatively wide range and are adaptable to disruptions to their habitat. They are not hunted for meat, however, in some regions they are trapped and sold into the exotic pet trade.
Sumatran Orangutans
Sumatran orangutans are Critically Endangered and face habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as hunting and trapping for bush meat and the pet trade.
White-Faced Saki
White-faced sakis are Least Concern and their ability to adapt to a wide range of conditions makes them resilient to habitat disruption. Hunting and deforestation are threats faced by this species.
White-Handed Gibbon
White-handed gibbons are Endangered and strictly arboreal. Deforestation and fragmentation due to logging has a significant impact on their populations.
Wolf’s Guenon
Wolf’s guenons are Near Threatened due to habitat destruction from logging and hunting for bushmeat in central Africa.
BONUS: Humans
Humans are the most prolific and widespread primate species. They have a significant impact on primate conservation and can work together to protect species and their habitats, preserving biodiversity for years to come.
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Happy International Primate Day! This day is celebrated annually on September 1st and aims to raise awareness about the importance of primates and their conservation. The Sacramento Zoo is proud to join the celebration and honor these remarkable animals.
Primates are some of the most intelligent and social creatures on our planet. They come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiny pygmy marmoset to the massive gorilla. They are found in many parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, South America, and even some islands in the Caribbean. There are over 500 species of primates, each with their unique characteristics and behaviors.
Sadly, many primates are threatened with extinction due to habitat loss, hunting, and the illegal wildlife trade. The Sacramento Zoo is committed to their conservation and works closely with other zoos, conservation organizations, and government agencies to protect these animals and their habitats.
One of the ways the Sacramento Zoo contributes to primate conservation is through their participation in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan® (SSP). The SSP is a cooperative breeding program that aims to maintain the genetic diversity of select species in zoos and aquariums. The SSP works to ensure the survival of endangered species and promote their overall well-being.
The Sacramento Zoo currently houses several primate species, including chimpanzees, orangutans, lemurs, and gibbons. These animals receive the best care possible, with enrichment activities and proper nutrition to promote their physical and mental health. Visitors to the Sacramento Zoo can observe and learn about these primates’ behaviors, social structures, and conservation threats through educational programs and exhibits.
The Sacramento Zoo also supports various conservation projects around the world that directly benefit primates. One such project is the Projet Grands Singes in Cameroon, which works to protect endangered primates, such as chimpanzees and gorillas, by engaging local communities in conservation efforts. Another project the Sacramento Zoo supports is the Association of Primate Veterinarians, which provides resources and education to primate veterinarians worldwide.
In conclusion, Happy International Primate Day is an essential day to recognize the integral role primates play in ecosystems worldwide. The Sacramento Zoo is proud to participate in primate conservation efforts through their involvement in SSPs, animal care, and support for various conservation projects. We invite you to visit the Sacramento Zoo and learn more about these remarkable animals’ beauty and significance in our world.
