One of Asia’s most elegant and striking leaf monkeys, known for its glossy black coat and distinctive tuft of white hair framing its face like long sideburns. Native to parts of southern China, northeastern Vietnam, and Laos, this langur lives in karst landscapes of steep limestone cliffs, dense forests, and rocky outcrops. Its slim body, long limbs, and incredibly long tail—often longer than its body—make it perfectly suited for leaping and climbing in these rugged, vertical habitats. At first glance, it might seem somber in its dark colors, but that bright white facial “fringe” gives it a dramatic and unmistakable look.

Unlike many monkeys that spend their lives high in trees, these langurs are often seen navigating steep limestone terrain with breathtaking agility. They can leap across sheer gaps or cling to narrow ledges with ease, making them among the most acrobatic primates in Asia. Their diet is highly specialized: as colobine monkeys, they are mostly leaf-eaters, with a multi-chambered stomach full of microbes that help them break down fibrous plant material. They also eat shoots, seeds, and seasonal fruits, and by doing so, they play a key role in dispersing seeds across their rocky ecosystems.

Socially, François’ langurs are close-knit and cooperative. They live in groups usually led by one adult male with multiple females and their young. Grooming, play, and constant contact keep group bonds strong, and females often help care for one another’s infants. Like many leaf monkeys, François’ langur babies are born with bright orange fur, which gradually shifts to black as they mature—a feature thought to help adults easily recognize and protect youngsters. These monkeys are also relatively quiet compared to macaques, relying on subtle calls, gestures, and group cohesion rather than loud vocal displays.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

China

1,600

Official estimate

EN

2015

Chongqing, Guangxi, Guizhou

Vietnam

<200

Official estimate

EN

2015