Endangered Javan Gibbon Born at U.K. Wildlife Park
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A Javan gibbon, an endangered primate, has been born at the Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve in Kent, U.K. The newborn, named Lima, is part of a significant conservation breeding program that holds nearly half of the global captive population of the species. The Aspinall Foundation, which runs the park, has recorded over 50 births in the past two decades and has sent individuals back to their native Java.
Facts First
- A newborn Javan gibbon has been born at the Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve in Kent, U.K.
- The Aspinall Foundation holds 26 Javan gibbons across its two parks, representing about 40-50% of the global captive population.
- The species is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List, with a declining wild population.
- The foundation has recorded over 50 births in the past 20 years and has sent individuals back to Java since 2012.
What Happened
A Javan gibbon, an endangered primate, was born at the Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve in Kent, U.K. The newborn, named Lima, is just over two months old. The park is run by The Aspinall Foundation, a U.K. charity that also operates the nearby Howletts Wild Animal Park. The foundation holds 26 Javan gibbons across both parks, which represents approximately 40-50% of the global captive population of the species.
Why this Matters to You
This birth contributes to the survival of a species facing extinction in the wild. The success of such conservation breeding programs may help ensure future generations can see and learn about these unique primates. It also highlights the role accredited zoos and wildlife parks can play in global species preservation efforts.
What's Next
The Aspinall Foundation is likely to continue its breeding program, which has seen more than 50 Javan gibbon births in the past two decades. The foundation may also prepare future individuals for potential return to their native habitat in Java, as it has done with approximately 10 individuals since 2012.