Golden Lion Tamarin

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An endangered golden lion tamarin sits on a branch at the tamarin golden lion reserve about 100 miles east of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in this photo taken August 14, 2008. A recent report shows that 48% of the world's primates face extinction, but the golden lion is an exception. The species, endemic to Southeastern of Brazil was recently "upgraded" from "endangered" to "threatened" demonstrating the remarkable success of efforts to save the tiny primate from extinction, which has become a model for other species around the world. The animal was almost wiped out due to destruction of its localized habitat - only in the state of Rio de Janeiro - and its unique beauty which made it a favorite for animal traffickers. Thanks to the Associacao Mico Leao Dourado, which has spear-headed the conservation efforts since 1983, with the help of several reknown zoos around the world, the tamarin has made a small, yet important comeback. (Australfoto/Douglas Engle)

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