Eastern grey gibbon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eastern grey gibbon |
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The eastern grey gibbon, also called the northern grey gibbon, is a type of primate. It belongs to the gibbon family, known for their amazing swinging abilities. Its scientific name is Hylobates funereus.
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What is a Gibbon?
Gibbons are small, tree-dwelling apes. They are famous for their long arms. These arms help them swing quickly through the forest canopy. They also sing loud songs to mark their territory.
Eastern Grey Gibbon's Family Tree
For a long time, scientists thought the eastern grey gibbon was the same species as two other grey gibbons. These were the western grey gibbon and the southern grey gibbon. However, newer studies show they are all different species. Important groups like the IUCN Red List now agree. Even though they are separate species, they can still have babies together. This happens where their homes meet.
Where Do Eastern Grey Gibbons Live?
The eastern grey gibbon lives only in one special place. This place is the northeastern part of Borneo. You can find them in areas like Kalimantan and Sarawak in Indonesia and Malaysia. They also live in Brunei. Their home stretches from Sabah in the north. It goes south to the Mahakam River in East Kalimantan. To the west, it reaches Baram in Sarawak.
Why Are Eastern Grey Gibbons in Danger?
Sadly, the eastern grey gibbon is an endangered animal. This means there are not many left in the wild. Their biggest threats come from humans and nature.
Losing Their Homes
One major problem is deforestation. This is when forests are cut down. People clear land for farms, logging, or buildings. Gibbons need trees to live, find food, and raise their families. When forests disappear, they lose their homes.
Forest Fires
Another big threat is forest fires. These fires can destroy huge areas of forest. Sometimes, natural events like El Niño make these fires worse. El Niño causes very dry weather. This makes it easier for fires to start and spread.
Illegal Hunting and Pet Trade
Eastern grey gibbons also face danger from illegal hunting. Some people hunt them for food. Others try to catch them to sell as pets. Keeping a gibbon as a pet is very harmful to them. They need to live in the wild with their own kind.
