In 2018, the golden lion tamarins, a little, attractive monkey clothed in coppery fur, were on the verge of extinction in Brazil. A yellow fever outbreak decimated the population of these monkeys by about one-third. However, in a rare conservation success story, their numbers have recovered dramatically.
The Golden Lion Tamarin Association's conservation biologists stated that the population of golden lion tamarins has increased to about 4,800 individuals. This growth is notable in light of the species' nadir in the 1970s, when barely 200 individuals remained, necessitating a tremendous effort to save them.
Golden lion tamarins are endemic to Brazil's lush forests, and the Atlantic Forest of Rio de Janeiro State is the only site where they may be found in the wild. These primates are known for being amiable and social, especially after one of them has given birth, which occurs annually with twin offspring.
The devastating outbreak of yellow fever in 2018 posed a serious threat to the survival of these Brazilian monkeys, resulting in a 32% population drop, leaving only roughly 2,500 individuals. Researchers aren't sure what's behind the recent population comeback.
However, conservationists believe that the drop in yellow fever incidence may have helped to the population comeback of the golden lion tamarin. Furthermore, the expansion of forested regions in the area may have provided these monkeys with more suitable homes, aiding in their recovery.
The recovery of the golden lion tamarin population demonstrates the relevance of conservation efforts in protecting endangered species. These monkeys' decline triggered immediate effort to save them from extinction, and the positive outcome indicates the potential benefit of targeted conservation strategies.
While the specific reasons for the golden lion tamarins' recovery are unknown, this success story provides hope and incentive to continue conserving and preserving fragile species around the world, particularly those threatened by illnesses and habitat degradation.