Primates Struggling to Survive

The world's primates face an "extinction crisis" with 60% of species now threatened with extinction, according to research. A global study, involving more than 30 scientists, assessed the conservation status of more than 500 individual species, BBC News reported. The study also revealed that 75% of species have populations that are declining. The findings are published in the journal Science Advances. Professor Jo Setchell from Durham University, a member of the team, explained that the main threats were "massive habitat loss" and illegal hunting. "The short answer is that we must reduce human domination of the planet and learn to share space with other species," Setchell said. The study also cited poverty and civil unrest as a driving force for hunting. In the poorest parts of the world, many people are being driven to hunting primates to feed themselves. Prof. Serge Wich from Liverpool John Moores University pointed out that the loss of primate species represented the loss of forests that are essential for the future of our own species. "These forests provide essential services for people," he said.