China’s endangered golden snub-nosed monkeys, known for their striking orange manes and pale blue faces, have embarked on a historic journey to Europe as part of a diplomatic initiative. These rare primates, native to the frigid mountains of central China, have joined the ranks of the country’s iconic pandas as animal ambassadors. Six monkeys have been loaned to zoos in France and Belgium for a decade, marking the first time these species have been showcased outside Asia. The initiative aims to foster scientific collaboration and conservation efforts while celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations between China and France. The monkeys, after a monthlong quarantine, have made their public debut and are reportedly adapting well to their new environments. Their enclosures feature traditional Chinese architecture, blending cultural elements with their natural habitats. While some experts praise the potential for conservation and research, others express concerns about the welfare of these individual animals during international transport. The golden snub-nosed monkey, deeply rooted in Chinese art and culture, joins the panda as a symbol of China’s soft power. However, unlike pandas, which have long been global icons, these monkeys are yet to achieve similar recognition. The initiative reflects China’s ongoing efforts to leverage its unique wildlife for diplomatic and conservation purposes, though debates about the ethical implications of such practices persist.
China’s rare golden monkeys debut at European zoos, a possible successor to ‘panda diplomacy’
