Golden Snub-Nosed Monkeys from China Make European Debut at French Zoo
Rare Chinese golden snub-nosed monkeys make their European debut at a French zoo, delighting visitors with their striking appearance.
Three golden snub-nosed monkeys captivated visitors as they made their highly anticipated public debut at the Beauval Zoo in France, marking an extraordinary milestone for wildlife conservation. This occasion represents the first time that this rare species has ever traveled outside of Asia, showcasing a significant step forward in international cooperation for endangered animals.
The new residents—one male and two females—arrived from Shanghai Wild Animal Park in early April, carefully accompanied by a Chinese animal caretaker to ensure a smooth transition. After completing a mandatory month-long quarantine, the primates were introduced to their specially designed new habitat, sparking excitement among zoo staff and visitors alike.
The arrival of these monkeys is part of a decade-long partnership between the Beauval Zoo and the China Wildlife Conservation Association. This collaborative effort is specifically aimed at boosting bilateral ties and advancing the cause of wildlife preservation through knowledge exchange, research initiatives, and breeding programs. Officials at the welcoming ceremony emphasized the importance of such international partnerships in safeguarding endangered species for future generations.
During the ceremony, Beauval Zoo director Rodolphe Delord revealed the names chosen for the primates—Jindou ("golden seed"), Jinbao ("golden treasure"), and Jinhua ("golden flower")—following an enthusiastic online competition that engaged the public in the naming process. "Like the giant pandas, the arrival of these primates strengthens the ties between France and China in the field of animal conservation," Delord remarked. He expressed hope that the trio would thrive, breed, and that eventually their offspring could be reintroduced to their native habitats in China.
This historic event follows the zoo's successful introduction of giant pandas Huan Huan and Yuan Zai from China in 2012, which launched an ongoing Sino-French panda breeding program. The addition of the golden snub-nosed monkeys cements Beauval Zoo's reputation as a leader in international species conservation, making it the first location outside of Asia to care for this endangered primate.
The golden snub-nosed monkey, also known as the Sichuan snub-nosed monkey, is famed for its vivid golden fur and distinctively upturned nose. Native to the mountainous forests of central and southwest China, this remarkable animal holds the status of a national treasure and enjoys top-level protection under Chinese law. Their presence in Europe offers researchers and conservationists unique opportunities to study their behavior, reproduction, and health, further aiding efforts to preserve the species in the wild.
The debut of Jindou, Jinbao, and Jinhua is not only a cause for celebration among animal lovers but also symbolizes the growing global commitment to protecting Earth's most vulnerable wildlife.
