The San Martin titi monkey’s home is under threat. It is estimated that in the past 25 years at least 80% of its Peruvian forest habitat has been destroyed.

Added to this devastating deforestation, the illegal animal trade is increasing so it is no wonder the San Martin titi monkey is listed as one of the 25 most endangered primates in the world – and is the most endangered primate species of Peru.

This is where Proyecto Mono Tocón steps in. Dedicated to the conservation, education and research of the region’s biodiversity, the association has created two protected areas covering almost 6,000 hectares.

Local support for the project has increased thanks to an exciting ecotourism training programme giving nearby villagers knowledge about wildlife and plants in the conservation areas, along with the skills to look after tourists such as cooking and food hygiene.

Last year Colchester Zoo’s Action for the Wild Charity donated £1,500 to Proyecto Mono Tocón towards education and research and for buying materials and equipment.

There is a great deal of work to do, but Proyecto Mono Tocón plans to expand this protected area to around 10,000 hectares, which would be great news for San Martin titi monkeys and the other animals that live there.

Find out more about this project here.