Monkey-interesting, cute, mischievous, and sometimes typically downright nasty creature having a carefree, joyful life. “Monkeys are broadly divided into Old World species—160 species, and New World species—174 species,” says Jessica A. Mayhew. So that’s 334 species altogether!

But we know monkey only for their play full behavior and their funny acts. A study revealed that about 60% of species, including apes, monkeys, gorillas, gibbons, and lemurs, are threatened with extinction and about 75% have declining populations. Those and many other species will disappear in the next 25 years unless conservation becomes a global priority. The nonhuman Primates are suffering most in Asia, with 71% of all species at risk, against 37% in Africa.

And the reason behind this decline is Habitat destruction, led by burning and clearing of tropical forests for farmland. Many monkeys live in an area where humans also live so they are considered as a threat. Some farmers kill them as they are pest for their crops. Hunting and killing of monkeys and apes for their meat, and their illegal capture for medical research were the main threats too. Some species were “literally being eaten into extinction,” a statement said. Monkeys will face an uncertain future, unless human behavior change. They are in serious trouble, and then their questions arise of animal rights and the human posing threats to animal lives and habitat.

That’s why there’s Monkey Day (on 14th December), a day that’s been dedicated to raising awareness about non-human primates including monkeys, apes, gorillas etc. Because monkeys are not only the lovable creature but also playing a vital role in maintaining the environment. They pollinate flowers and disperse seeds in their native habitat.

  • The Urgent actions to help them survive are:
  • Reduce hunting by law and enforcement
  • Restore and protect natural habitat
  • Stop keeping them as pet
  • Stop habitat loss and degradation
  • Love them and Raise awareness for them

About the Author: Iqra Ateeq is a student of Environmental scs at GCWUS. She is a climate activist and loves to write for nature. She is a nature lover by heart