In the mist-covered forests of Mount Fanjingshan in Guizhou province, China, efforts to protect the critically endangered Guizhou snub-nosed monkey—also known as the Guizhou golden monkey—are showing promising progress. This rare primate, which sports striking golden fur, is found exclusively on Mount Fanjingshan, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, and has an estimated wild population of approximately 850 individuals.

Yang Wei, a veterinarian from the nearby Songtao Miao autonomous county, has dedicated six years to studying and conserving the species. After earning a master’s degree from Guizhou University, Yang returned to his home region in 2020 to lead efforts at the Guizhou snub-nosed monkey research center, part of the Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve Administration. His work includes redesigning enclosures that closely replicate the monkeys’ natural habitat to improve the survival rates of rescued individuals. According to Yang, all rescued monkeys cared for in these specialized enclosures have survived to date.

Beyond improving facilities, Yang’s team has developed targeted care programs for pregnant monkeys, enhancing their health and reducing breeding intervals. While female monkeys in the wild typically give birth once every three years, the center’s interventions have shortened this cycle to about two years. Currently, the research center houses four rescued and five captive-born monkeys, signaling cautious optimism for population recovery.

Protecting the wild populations remains a challenge. To monitor and safeguard the monkeys, authorities have implemented a network of seven video surveillance units and multiple infrared cameras within their core habitat, supplemented by drone patrols and ground teams. These technologies aim to collect detailed data on monkey behavior and deter potential poachers.

Outside the forest, the installation of 14 ecological corridors along the mountain’s perimeter helps separate human activity from the monkeys’ migration paths. By planting preferred food sources along these routes, conservationists encourage safe movement between feeding and resting areas. Yang noted that the monkeys have increasingly utilized these corridors, indicating successful adaptation to the modified environment.

Local forest ranger Li Jiuhua, who has patrolled Mount Fanjingshan for decades, has observed a resurgence in both monkey numbers and other wildlife, including rare species such as the red pheasant. He expressed hope that continued conservation work will lead to a thriving population visible throughout the forest canopy.

China’s broader ecological strategy supports such local initiatives. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021–25), the country launched 24,000 projects aimed at environmental restoration and biodiversity protection. Officials from the Ministry of Ecology and Environment highlight ongoing commitments to expand these efforts under the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–30).

Reflecting this commitment, Guizhou authorities have invested over 46 million yuan (approximately $6.73 million) in a new conservation center that began trial operations in April. The facility features 15 enclosures, a veterinary hospital, a laboratory, and food storage, designed to advance breeding, research, and public education regarding the Guizhou snub-nosed monkey. Deputy director Yang Ni emphasized plans to expand expert involvement and train local staff, with an aim of sharing conservation knowledge on a global scale.