Shillong, June 19: In a significant boost to wildlife conservation efforts in the Northeast, the Meghalaya State Zoo has recorded its first-ever successful breeding of the Stump-tailed Macaque (Macaca arctoides), a vulnerable primate species facing threats across its natural range.
Zoo authorities announced the birth of a healthy infant macaque, marking a major milestone in the institution’s conservation programme and strengthening efforts to secure the future of the species through captive breeding.
The breeding pair was brought to Meghalaya from the Aizawl Zoological Park in Mizoram under an animal exchange programme. Officials said the successful birth demonstrates the species’ adaptation to its new environment and reflects the effectiveness of the zoo’s animal care, veterinary support and scientific management practices.
Listed as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, the Stump-tailed Macaque faces increasing threats from habitat loss, forest fragmentation and human disturbances across parts of South and Southeast Asia.
The successful breeding is expected to contribute to ongoing ex-situ conservation efforts aimed at maintaining genetically viable populations of threatened wildlife species.
Zoo officials said the newborn is healthy and remains under close monitoring by the veterinary team while continuing to stay with its mother and troop.
Describing the development as a landmark achievement, D. Sathiyan, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife & Biodiversity) and Chief Wildlife Warden, Meghalaya, said the birth was the result of sustained efforts towards wildlife conservation and scientific zoo management.
“The successful breeding of a vulnerable species is an encouraging outcome and reflects Meghalaya’s commitment to conservation-driven zoo management,” he said.
Sathiyan added that the achievement also underscores the growing role of modern zoological institutions in safeguarding threatened species, supporting conservation research and creating public awareness about biodiversity protection.
The birth marks a rare conservation success for Meghalaya and adds to the state’s efforts to strengthen wildlife conservation through scientifically managed breeding programmes.
