Objective To study the sensitivity of Chinese non-human primates to H5N1 avian influenza virus and to establish animal models for H5N1 research.Method\ Cynomolgus and rhesus macaques were infected with H5N1 virus through nasal dropping.All monkeys were euthanized at various time points for collecting serum samples for serology,throat swab for etiology and tissues for pathology.Results\ After infection the animals manifested lack of appetite,transient fever and leukopenia.Virus replication was demonstrated by virus isolation and RTPCR.Histopathological examination of lung tissues at acute stage confirmed interstitial pneumonia,localized haemorrhage and necrosis,presence of inflammatory infiltration in the interstitium and interalveolar space.On the 14th day after infection,serum IgG level of the macaques went up.Conclusion\ Chinese rhesus and cynomolgus macaques can be infected with H5N1 virus and may serve as animal models for H5N1 research,providing better insight to the mechanism of AIV infection,and may greatly facilitate the screening of anti-AIV drugs and vaccine evaluation as well.