Ninh Binh proposes Delacour's langur as provincial symbol

The Delacour's langur (Trachypithecus delacouri), an endemic primate species classified as ‘critically endangered’ by the IUCN, is being proposed as a symbol for Ninh Binh province to drive conservation and ecotourism. Approximately 95% of the remaining population is concentrated in Ninh Binh, with recent surveys estimating between 562 and 570 individuals across 81 to 82 groups.

Despite its importance, the species faces significant threats. Experts report that habitat degradation is occurring due to limestone mining in Kim Bang and Yen Mo, with some satellite analysis suggesting up to 52% of the landscape in certain areas has been lost. Additionally, the species remains vulnerable to hunting, trapping, agricultural expansion, and livestock grazing.

Dr. Nguyen Manh Ha, Director of the Nature Conservation and Development Center, supports using the langur as a provincial symbol, noting it could increase political commitment and resources for protection. He emphasizes that such a move must be accompanied by substantive conservation efforts to ensure the symbol reflects a healthy, growing population rather than just an image.