The red-shanked douc (Pygathrix nemaeus) is one of the most charismatic species in the world. It is a leaf-eating monkey with populations found in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Due to habitat destruction and hunting, this beautiful monkey is on the brink of extinction, currently classified as Critically Endangered according to the IUCN Red List.

Since 2014, LVDI International has been working in central Vietnam to strengthen protection of the red-shanked douc population in Son Tra Nature Reserve, as well as another closely related species, the grey-shanked douc (P. cinerea), in the Elephant Species and Habitat Conservation Area. Together with our conservation partners, we have conducted numerous educational and outreach activities that have increased awareness and understanding about the doucs in both children and adults. Additionally, we have produced educational materials, such as The Adventure of Douc Vui Ve, that help foster empathy in children toward these animals.