In a historic achievement, the Meghalaya State Zoo has successfully bred a Stump-tailed Macaque, a rare and threatened primate whose numbers are declining across South and Southeast Asia.
The birth of the primate is being hailed as a landmark achievement for Meghalaya’s wildlife conservation efforts and a significant step forward in securing the future of a species classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The infant was born to a breeding pair brought from the Aizawl Zoological Park in Mizoram under an animal exchange programme designed to strengthen conservation breeding initiatives among zoos in the region.
Officials say the birth demonstrates that the animals have adapted well to their surroundings and that the zoo’s management protocols are delivering results.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife & Biodiversity) and Chief Wildlife Warden D Sathiyan described the development as a milestone for wildlife conservation in the state.
“The successful breeding of a vulnerable species is an encouraging outcome and reflects Meghalaya’s commitment to conservation-driven zoo management,” Sathiyan said.
The Stump-tailed Macaque (Macaca arctoides) is among the lesser-known primates of Asia, distinguished by its stocky build, dark brown fur and characteristically short tail.
Wildlife experts say every successful breeding event contributes to broader ex-situ conservation efforts and strengthens the long-term prospects for threatened species.
Veterinary teams are closely monitoring the infant, which continues to stay with its mother and troop. Officials report that the newborn is healthy and developing normally, an encouraging sign during the critical early weeks of life.
