The very restricted range and fragmented populations of the crowned sifaka are major concerns for the continuation of this species. Habitat destruction, forest fragmentation, slash and burn agriculture, capture for illegal pet trade, and illegal hunting constitute major threats. The species is currently listed by the IUCN Red List as critically endangered, and is listed as CITES Appendix I. Some of the larger populations are found in protected areas, however much of its range remain relatively unexplored as they are labeled as politically “dangerous” zones. The 2009 Malagasy political crisis led to lawlessness across Madagascar and ultimately led to increased poaching of the sifaka for food as a delicacy in restaurants. As of 2014 there is only one successful captive breeding population of crowned sifaka coordinated by the Paris Zoological Park in Paris, France.