Strategies for Recovery of the Hainan Gibbon (Nomascus hainanus)

The Hainan gibbon (Nomascus hainanus) is endemic to China’s Hainan Island, and is the world’s rarest primate species. With rampant deforestation and hunting, by 1980 less than 10 individuals reportedly survived at Bawangling National Nature Reserve. A systematic population census in 2003 confirmed only 13 individuals and it was feared that it would be the first modern primate species to go extinct. In 2003, Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden was invited by the local conservation authority to take an active role in saving the species from extinction. Together with relevant government agencies and other stakeholders, a conservation strategy with prioritised conservation actions were devised and implemented; these ranged from reforestation of prime lowland habitat, establishment of gibbon monitoring teams, scientific research, awareness-raising and provision of alternative livelihoods to surrounding communities. With years of continuous presence and open dialogue, the local authorities and communities embraced the suite of conservation actions, and the species is on a slow but steady recovery pathway. The population is expanding its range and currently stands at five family groups of at least 34 gibbons.