Pairi Daiza becomes first European zoo to house Qinling golden snub-nosed monkey
Three Qinling golden snub-nosed monkeys arrived at Pairi Daiza zoo in Belgium on Wednesday afternoon. This makes Pairi Daiza the first zoo in Europe to host this rare species, which until now could only be seen in China.
The Qinling golden snub-nosed monkey is known for its golden fur and distinctive upturned nose. This critically endangered species is native to the Qinling Mountains in China. Estimates suggest only around 4,000 individuals remain in the wild, living in remote, protected areas.
With the arrival of one male and two females on Wednesday, Pairi Daiza is now the first non-Chinese zoo to host this rare species. They were welcomed by the Chinese ambassador to Belgium, Fei Shengchao, and representatives from the Walloon government.
The milestone is the result of a scientific cooperation agreement between Pairi Daiza and the China Wildlife Conservation Association. Under a 10-year lease, the monkeys will live at the Belgian zoo and return to China at the end of the collaboration.
Pairi Daiza has previously partnered with China on giant panda conservation efforts. "We are very excited to be working with the zoo again," said ambassador Fei. "We cooperate with many countries, but Belgium is one of the best when it comes to research and protecting species and their environment."
The monkeys have been placed in an enclosure designed to mimic the forested landscape of their native Qinling Mountains. However, they have to remain in quarantine for 30 days before they can fully explore their new home.
© BELGA PHOTO JAMES ARTHUR GEKIERE / BELGA VIDEO MAARTEN WEYNANTS
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