A golden baby monkey was born to the Phayre's leaf monkey family in Guchengshanzi Reserve in Baoshan City, Yunnan Province. 

The picture shows a Phayre's leaf monkey and a baby monkey. (Provided by Xiaoheishan Provincial Nature Reserve)

The Phayre’s leaf monkey is one of the first-level protected wild animals in China, according to Ai Huaisen, a senior engineer at Southwest Forestry University. The baby Phayre’s leaf monkey’s fur is golden for three months and turns grey at six months.

The picture shows Phayre's leaf monkeys and the baby monkey. (Provided by Xiaoheishan Provincial Nature Reserve)

“We saw three golden baby monkeys last year and three this year, as well as a pregnant female so far,” said Yang Rongting, head of Gucheng Mountain Management and Conservation Station.

At present, there are more than 70 Phayre's leaf monkeys in Guchengshanzi Reserve in Longling County, an increase of about 60 from the 10 observed 16 years ago.

Phayre's leaf monkeys. (Provided by Xiaoheishan Provincial Nature Reserve)

“The steady increase in the number of Phayre's leaf monkeys in Longling County fully reflects the continuous improvement of the ecological environment here, which is suitable for the survival and reproduction of wildlife,” Ai said.

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(Editors: Christine, Ines)