Yao Hui, vice-president of the institute, said that golden monkeys breed seasonally usually mating between August and October and giving birth in the spring of the following year after about 200 days of gestation. Females usually give birth once every two years, to one offspring at a time. Baby monkeys typically stay with their mothers for more than a year.

The institute said it would provide a diverse diet for the monkeys to ensure their safety and health.

Thanks to efforts in past generations, recent years have seen the number of golden monkeys increase — from 1,280 in 2005 to 1,470 now. Their habitat has also increased, from 210 sq km to 354 sq km.

Gong Wenyu contributed to the story.