Watch Nature: Mystery Monkeys of Shangri-La

Nature: Mystery Monkeys of Shangri-La is a documentary film that follows a group of scientists and biologists on a journey to the remote region of Yunnan in China, in search of a particular species of monkeys called the snub-nosed monkeys. The film is directed by Mark Fletcher and narrated by the renowned actor and activist BD Wong.

The documentary begins with an introduction to the snub-nosed monkeys, a species that has only been discovered within the last 30 years. The monkeys live in the remote Shangri-La region of Yunnan, where the altitude and climate are harsh and extreme, making it a challenging environment for any species to survive. The film shows how the monkeys' unique physical characteristics, such as their blue faces and strange noses, have made them one of the most fascinating species to study.

We then meet the team of scientists who have spent years studying the snub-nosed monkeys. The team consists of researchers and biologists from China, the United States and the United Kingdom, all working together to unravel the mysteries behind these enigmatic creatures. We get a glimpse into the daily lives of the researchers, who brave the extreme elements and terrain to track and observe the monkeys' behavior.

As the film progresses, we learn about the many challenges the team faces in their research. The monkeys are elusive and incredibly shy, making it difficult for researchers to get close enough to study them. The harsh environment also poses a threat to researchers - the high altitude makes it difficult to breathe, and the extreme temperatures can be deadly. Despite these challenges, the team persists, driven by their passion and love for the monkeys.

The film also addresses the issue of hunting, which has been a significant problem in the region for many years. The monkeys are often targeted by hunters for their meat and fur, causing their populations to decline rapidly. The documentary highlights the efforts of local conservationists to protect the monkeys and their habitat through education and outreach programs.

One of the most eye-opening parts of the film is watching the intricate and complex social relationships of the monkeys in action. We see how monkeys interact with each other, form alliances, and even engage in conflict. The team uses advanced technology, including drones and cameras, to capture footage of the monkeys that gives a unique insight into their behavior and social lives.

The film also covers the debate among biologists and geneticists over the relationship between snub-nosed monkeys and humans. The monkeys share many traits with humans, such as a similar respiratory system, leading some scientists to believe that they could hold important insights into human evolution.

The final part of the film is the most poignant, as we see the researchers bid farewell to the monkeys they have come to love and respect. The film is a testament to the beauty and mystery of the natural world, and the dedication of those who seek to understand it.

In conclusion, Nature: Mystery Monkeys of Shangri-La is a fascinating and insightful documentary that provides a rare glimpse into the world of the snub-nosed monkeys. It combines stunning footage of the monkeys' behavior with insightful commentary from a team of passionate and dedicated researchers. The film is a testament to the beauty and complexity of the natural world and the importance of conservation efforts to protect it.