Western grey gibbon

The western grey gibbon, also known as Abbott's grey gibbon, is a primate in the gibbon family, Hylobatidae. It was named after zoologist William Louis Abbott.

Taxonomy

Formerly, the western grey gibbon and northern grey gibbon were considered conspecific with the southern grey gibbon, but more recent studies indicate that all three are distinct species, and both the IUCN Red List and the American Society of Mammalogists consider them such.

Distribution

The western grey gibbon is endemic to the western portion of Borneo, where it is found in both Kalimantan and Sarawak. It is found north of the Kapuas River and ranges as far east as Spaoh.

Conservation

This species is thought to be endangered due to heavy deforestation in Borneo, as well as increases in forest fires exacerbated by El Niño events. It is also threatened by illegal hunting and capture for the pet trade.