Conservation of northern muriqui and brown howler monkeys in the Mantiqueira Mountain Range, Brazil

Sarisha Trindade do Carmo

Other project team members: Jean Paulo Soares da Silva, Camila Rezende Guimarães, Clariane Caroline de Araújo Maranho, Tiago Pires Whately

The northern muriqui (Brachyteles hypoxanthus) is a large primate endemic to the Brazilian Atlantic Forest and is Critically Endangered. Widespread forest loss and fragmentation throughout its range are the main threats to northern muriqui as well as Vulnerable brown howler monkeys (Alouatta guariba). Finding new populations of muriqui is extremely important to understand the conservation status of the species, as nowadays we estimate only 12 populations in the wild. Furthermore, the species is highly susceptible to yellow fever, and an outbreak in 2016 killed a large number of individuals, with local extinctions in several places. The study area in the southeast region of Serra da Mantiqueira Mountain range is under-researched with many knowledge gaps about biodiversity. In order to obtain reliable demographic data and quantify the remaining groups of both species, thus achieving greater precision about the current species status, we will realize a population survey using a thermal camera drone to detect the primates. Also, we will interview local residents and sensitize them to the species issues, contributing to the habitat protection and reducing possible conflicts with local community by disseminating knowledge applied to conservation. The development of this research will gather crucial information for the application of the National Action Plan of the Atlantic Forest Primates, coordinated by the National Center of Research and Conservation of Brazilian Primates, ICMBio.

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