【明報專訊】Where do these monkeys live?

Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkeys are only found in China. They inhabit forests up on the mountains 1,500 to 3,400m above sea level. In the wild, they form groups of as many as 600 monkeys in summer. In winter, they split into smaller groups of fewer than 40 members each.

Do these monkeys eat bananas?

No, they don't eat bananas! Living high up in the mountains where the weather is cold, the golden snub-nosed monkeys mainly feed on lichens (地衣). They also eat leaves, seeds and insects.

Why is the number of these monkeys declining?

Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkeys are endangered animals. Their numbers dropped by more than 50% over the past 40 years. They are losing their habitats to human activities. Forests are cut down to obtain wood, or cleared for farming or raising livestock. Apart from that, tourism development has brought infrastructure and tourists have caused disturbance to the wildlife.

Why do these monkeys look different throughout the year?

The colour of Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkeys changes with season and provides camouflage (保護色). In spring, their fur becomes short and brownish grey so that the monkeys can blend into the dense forests. In autumn, they moult (換毛) and the new fur is long and golden orange. This not only matches the yellow, orange or brown fallen leaves, but also provides warmth in winter.

◆First baby golden snub-nosed monkey in Hong Kong!

On 17th April, 2017, Ocean Park welcomed the very first golden snub-nosed monkey born in Hong Kong. This baby, named ''Lokie''(樂奇), is the son of Le Le(樂樂) and Qi Qi(其其). Though Le Le is a first-time mother, she has learned how to nurse and take good care of her little son. Lokie spends much of his day exploring his home, climbing up and down the trees and rocks. He also likes playing with his parents.

Text and photos: Ocean Park Hong Kong

■Glossary

inhabit (v) 棲息於

split (v) 把……分開(成小組)

livestock (n) 牲畜

dense (adj) 茂密的

[Smarties' Power English 第202期]