Nature + Wildlife Southeast Asia

Red-Shanked Douc Langur: Endangered Species

One of the most visually captivating monkeys in the animal kingdom.

The Red-shanked Douc is a primate species native to the lush forests of Southeast Asia. These fascinating creatures captivate with their unique multicolour coats, social behaviour and specialized diet.

Five Facts About The Red-Shanked Douc 

1. Coat and Colours Variations

The Red-Shanked Douc is known for its striking and vibrant appearance. This species of primate has a colourful coat that includes shades of red, grey, black, and white, making it one of the most visually captivating monkeys in the animal kingdom.

2. Social Structure

Red-Shanked Doucs live in close-knit social groups that are led by a dominant male. These groups typically consist of several females and their offspring. They are known for their strong social bonds and cooperative behaviours within the group.

3. Habitat

Red-Shanked Doucs are native to Southeast Asia. They can be found in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. They inhabit dense tropical forests and are well-adapted to life in the treetops, where they forage for food and evade predators.


4. Diet
The Red-Shanked Douc is primarily a folivore, meaning, its diet consists mainly of leaves. They consume fruits, flowers and occasional insect as well. Their specialized digestive system allows them to extract nutrients from tough plant material.

Red-Shanked Douc Mother and infant In Son Tra Mountain
Red-Shanked Douc Mother and infant In Son Tra Mountain

5. Conservation Status
The Red-Shanked Douc is classified as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Habitat loss, deforestation, hunting for the illegal wildlife trade and human encroachment is a constant threat. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their remaining habitats to ensure their survival for future generations.

By raising awareness about the plight of the Red-Shanked Douc and supporting conservation efforts in their habitat countries, we can help ensure the survival of this unique and captivating species for years to come.

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