What is a gibbon?

A gibbon is a small ape native to the forests of Southeast Asia. The tree-dwellers are among the most threatened primates on earth, with all but one gibbon species listed as endangered due to a combination of disappearing habitats and poaching.

The acrobatic animals can weigh up to 29 pounds, and may bear long coats from cream to brown to black, depending on the species. Known for their long, powerful arms and loud hooting calls, gibbons thrive on fruit trees, especially figs, occasionally supplementing their diet with leaves and insects. Unlike most primates, gibbons are monogamous, with family groups traditionally consisting of an adult pair and their offspring.