#USA #Washington #IUCN #NABR #Long-Tailed Macaque

NABR's Commentary on the IUCN Determination

On October 9, 2025, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) made a significant announcement regarding the status of the long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis), maintaining its classification as "Threatened." This development echoes a petition submitted by the National Association for Biomedical Research (NABR) back in 2023, challenging the validity of the IUCN's assessment. The NABR argued that the findings from a review by Hansen et al. used by IUCN were based on a misinterpretation of existing scientific data.

NABR highlights that despite presenting strong evidence, the IUCN failed to objectively consider the scientific information available. Dr. Ray Hilborn, a world-renowned scientist and part of the NABR review team, expressed disappointment over IUCN's decision not to adequately address the presented data, which brings into question the scientific rigor of their conclusion. According to Dr. Hilborn, the lack of reliable data on population trends suggests that the IUCN employed flawed scientific methods in reaching its determination.

The IUCN's determination stands in stark contrast to findings from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which, in October 2024, dismissed a petition from wildlife protection groups aiming to list long-tailed macaques under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The Service stated that the petition did not provide credible evidence supporting claims of population decline or threats to the species. Furthermore, it was noted that no government around the world recognizes these macaques as endangered, raising concerns about the accuracy of the IUCN's latest declaration.

Long-tailed macaques are widely utilized in biomedical research due to their physiological and genetic similarities with humans. Their contributions have been vital for the development of numerous medications; reports indicate that five out of the twenty most commonly prescribed drugs were developed with the aid of macaques. Furthermore, research involving these primates has played a critical role in advancements in regenerative medicine, immunology, cancer research, vaccine development, and even the COVID-19 vaccine. This information has been supported by recent studies published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), reaffirming the importance of long-tailed macaques in biomedical research.

Matthew R. Bailey, president of NABR, underscored the continuing disconnect between empirical scientific evidence and the IUCN's claims, stating that the organization has submitted to pressures exerted by animal rights activists and has misrepresented the status of the long-tailed macaque as endangered. This mislabeling is particularly striking given that these primates are acknowledged as an invasive species in various countries.

In addition to these discussions, the conservation status of long-tailed macaques, along with the involvement of PETA in government programs, featured in a September 2024 hearing before the U.S. House Oversight Committee. Testimonies during this hearing revealed attempts by organizations like PETA to unduly influence government research on this species for political reasons.

NABR emphasizes its commitment to continued advocacy for robust public policies that support responsible animal use in biomedical research. Since its founding in 1979, NABR has been a dedicated non-profit organization focusing on promoting policies that acknowledge the necessity of using animals in research and testing. Its members include over 340 leading universities, medical and veterinary schools, hospitals, pharmaceutical and biotech companies, patient advocacy groups, and professional societies that rely on animal research to advance global health for both humans and animals. For further insights into their work, visit www.nabr.org.

This ongoing debate surrounding the conservation status of long-tailed macaques represents a critical intersection of wildlife management, scientific research, and ethics, illustrating the complexities involved in balancing conservation efforts with practical biomedical considerations.