SHILLONG: The Meghalaya State Zoo has achieved a major conservation milestone with the birth of a Stump-tailed Macaque (Macaca arctoides), marking the first successful breeding of the species at the zoo.
The breeding pair was brought to the zoo from the Aizawl Zoological Park under an animal exchange programme. The successful birth reflects the species’ positive adaptation to its new environment and underscores the high standards of animal care, veterinary support, and scientific management maintained by the zoo.
Listed as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, the Stump-tailed Macaque faces growing threats from habitat loss, fragmentation, and human disturbances. The successful breeding represents an important contribution to ongoing conservation efforts through scientifically managed ex-situ conservation programmes.
The newborn macaque is healthy and remains under close observation by the zoo’s veterinary team while continuing to stay with its mother and troop.
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Welcoming the achievement, D. Sathiyan said the birth is an encouraging outcome of sustained efforts towards wildlife conservation in the State. He noted that the success highlights Meghalaya’s commitment to scientific zoo management and the conservation of threatened species, while also helping raise public awareness about the critical role modern zoological institutions play in safeguarding wildlife for future generations.
