Like other gibbons, the white-handed gibbon is an expert at traveling in the trees. Arms that are longer than its legs allow the gibbon to cover a great distance—nearly 10 feet—with each pendulum swing of its body. Forward-facing eyes provide it with the binocular vision and depth perception necessary to determine a safe route.
White-Handed Gibbon
Hylobates lar
Fact File
Pronunciation: GIB-un
Where to see them: Gibbon Islands
Weight: 10 to 17 lbs
Lifespan: 30 yrs
Habitat: Tropical forest
Diet: Fruits, leaves, insects, and flowers
Risk Status: Species at Risk (IUCN—Lower risk/near threatened)Video
A Tightrope Grip:Gibbons have leather-like soles on their feet and an opposable big toe that help it grasp and walk upright on branches.
