This snub-nosed monkey with an Elvis hairstyle is one of over 200 new species discovered in the Greater Mekong region. © Martin Aveling/Fauna and Flora International

In the Greater Mekong region of Asia, which covers Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and the southwestern Chinese province of Yunnan, scientists have recently discovered over 200 new species. The list includes 145 plants, 28 reptiles, 25 fish, 7 amphibians, 2 mammals, and 1 bird.

One interesting find is the snub-nosed monkey, which has to keep its head between its knees when it rains so water doesn’t get into its nose. Another noteworthy discovery is a self-cloning lizard, which is an all-female species.

For more information and a photo slideshow of more of these fascinating species, see:

The Telegraph
World Wildlife Fund

Elke, a baby Francois Langur monkey, was born last Thursday at the Taronga Zoo in Sydney.  Her mother, Saigon, has not accepted the baby, so Elke will be hand-raised by keepers to insure her survival.

Francois Langurs are endangered in their native Asian habitat due to habitat loss and hunting.

For more information: Taronga Zoo