Humans, animals and plants all threaten the survival of primates. In a recent report, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) warned that extinction of some species could lead to the extinction of others. This is concerning, especially considering that human beings’ closest relatives are already critically endangered. However, there are many things that humans can do to help primates. Below is a list of practical and personal actions that can help preserve this iconic species.
Counting and finding primates is a challenge. They live in dense forests and are hard to count. Furthermore, they reproduce slowly, taking years to establish a stable population. In addition, the presence of human beings in a primate habitat can affect the survival of a primate. Thus, conservation is essential to ensure the survival of primates. The challenge of preserving these animals is made all the more urgent by the fact that humans are increasingly ignoring their existence.
Climate change is the greatest threat to primate conservation, compounding the existing threats. Global temperatures have risen by 0.85oC over the last century, and each decade has been warmer than the previous one. These changes are having a huge impact on biodiversity, including affecting resource abundance, causing cascades of ecosystem disturbances, and contributing to the increased production of carbon dioxide. As a result, it is vital to protect primates and their habitats from these dangers.
