Two gibbon species, the northern white-cheeked gibbon and the white-handed gibbon, have been declared ‘extinct in the wild’ by Chinese researchers as these species have not been seen in their habitat in southern China for more than 10 years. According to researchers, the populations of both these species declined due to habitat loss caused by deforestation, pet trade and hunting. 80% of the 28 remaining primate species of China are threatened, while the population of over 15 species has declined to less than 3,000.
Did You Know?
Gibbons have musical voices, which they use to communicate with each other and keep intruders away.