IUCN Species of the Day: Northern Muriqui

 

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(tm)

Photo credit: Carla B. Possamai

 

The Northern Muriqui, Brachyteles hypoxanthus, is listed as ‘CRITICALLY ENDANGERED’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™. This species occurs in the Atlantic Forest in parts of eastern Brazil, where it has been a flagship species for the conservation of this fragile habitat.

Although once widespread in the Atlantic Forest region, the Northern Muriqui now exists in only a handful of small and isolated subpopulations, none of which are believed to be viable in the long-term. This primate has been widely hunted for food and sport, and, although hunting is less of a threat today, the widespread destruction of its forests is now putting the Northern Muriqui at serious risk of extinction.

The Northern Muriqui occurs in several protected areas, and a number of research programmes, monitoring programmes and conservation initiatives are in place for the species. In addition, there is a captive breeding programme underway. Effective protection of its remaining habitat will also be vital if this Critically Endangered primate is to survive.

 

Geographic Range of the Northern MuriquiCredit: IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™ 

 

To learn more about the Northern Muriqui, click here.  Or visit the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™ by clicking their logo below.

 

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To learn more about the Bush Warriors “Species of the Day” feature, please click here and read up on our initiative to raise awareness about the loss of earth’s biodiversity.

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