CONSULTATIVE WORKSHOP ON THE CURRENT STATUS AND CONSERVATION SOLUTIONS FOR THE BLACK-SHANKED DOUC LANGUR AT BA DEN MOUNTAIN

Having endured significant devastation during two resistance wars, Ba Den Mountain – Tay Ninh province today stands not only as a national historical relic but also as a forest ecosystem of critical biodiversity value in the Southeast region of Vietnam. Spanning an area of approximately 24 square kilometers, this granitic massif deeply intertwined with the legend of Linh Son Holy Mother - serves as a vital habitat for various rare and endangered wildlife species, including the Black-shanked douc langur (Pygathrix nigripes). Consequently, protecting and maintaining the ecological integrity of this area has become increasingly paramount for biodiversity conservation efforts.

Figure 1: Black-footed langur (Pygathrix nigripes)

In June, Center for Nature Conservation and Development (CCD), in collaboration with the Management Board of the Ba Den Mountain National Tourist Area, convened a consultative workshop focused on the current status and conservation strategies for the Black-shanked douc langur at Ba Den Mountain. The workshop provided a platform for specialized agencies, experts, and relevant stakeholders to deliberate on and contribute constructive feedback to the recent survey findings, thereby refining the comprehensive report and proposing conservation solutions tailored to the practical conditions of the locality.

Figure 2: Overview of the Workshop

Figure 3: CCD expert presenting the survey findings on the population status of the Black-shanked douc langur at Ba Den Mountain

Within the conservation strategy framework, CCD research team conducted field assessments utilizing a combination of methodologies, including line-transect surveys, fixed-point observations, camera-trapping, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This research process yielded a robust scientific dataset regarding the population status, individual counts, troop structures, and spatial distribution of the Black-shanked Douc Langur at Ba Den Mountain, successfully generating supplementary data to support management and conservation operation.

Figures 4&5: Experts contributing feedback to refine the survey findings and conservation solutions

Figure 6: Representative of the Tay Ninh Provincial Forest Protection Department sharing insights at the workshop

Moving forward, CCD will synthesize and integrate the recommendations gathered from the workshop to finalize the survey report. This will serve as a rigorous scientific foundation assisting the Management Board of the Ba Den Mountain National Tourist Area in implementing appropriate conservation measures, ultimately aiming for the long-term preservation of both the Black-shanked Douc Langur and the distinctive ecosystem of Ba Den Mountain.