The 25 most endangered primates list : Impacts on conservation fundraising and policy

Threatened species lists are used for media outreach, but their efficacy is rarely tested. This chapter examines one prominent example – “Primates in Peril: The World’s 25 Most Endangered Primates” – as tested using data collected from primate experts and an analysis of primate research and conservation grant archives. Inclusion on the list helped mobilize financial resources for dozens of threatened species and led to the expansion or creation of hunting laws, to conservation action plans, and to protected areas. The chapter examines reasons for the small number of cases where inclusion on the list did not result in positive impacts. As the only media tool focusing on the plight of primates, it has had significant impacts on primate conservation worldwide by increasing awareness and funding for the target species.