Behavior, Ecology, and Conservation Biology of Asian Leaf-eating Monkeys

Threatened by hunting and habitat loss, over 50 percent of Asian leaf-eating monkey taxa (subfamily Colobinae) are currently at risk. Yet little is known about the behavior and ecology of these primates. Knowledge about the natural history of these animals is fundamental to designing effective, long-term conservation programs.

The Zoological Society of San Diego is taking a leadership role in the conservation of Asian leaf-eating monkeys. Presently, this project consists of several studies with emphasis on a closely related group, collectively known as the “odd-nosed monkeys.” San Diego Zoo scientists and research collaborators are investigating conservation-relevant topics pertaining to feeding ecology, ranging, social structure, reproduction, and development in snub-nosed monkeys (genus Rhinopithecus), douc langurs ( genus Pygathrix) and proboscis monkeys (genus Nasalis ). By adopting a multi-species and multi-habitat approach, researchers also aim to generate comparative datasets to better understand colobine adaptations and evolution.