A Sunshine Coast zoo has welcomed the birth of a tiny ape that brings hope to a species on the brink of extinction.
Wildlife HQ announced the arrival of a northern white-cheeked gibbon, hailing it as “a significant moment for this rare primate species”.
The infant was born to Tao and Tien, who were originally matched at Perth Zoo and transferred to Wildlife HQ as part of the coordinated breeding program in 2022.
The baby was Tien’s first offspring and the zoo said she was already showing “excellent maternal behaviour”.
Wilfdlife HQ said northern white-cheeked gibbons were among the world’s most endangered primates.
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Native to the forested regions of Vietnam and Laos, they face ongoing threats from habitat loss, poaching and the illegal wildlife trade.
Wildlife HQ head primate keeper Suzanne Pearson said the arrival of the baby was important for the survival of the species, which is listed as critically endangered.
“This birth represents a meaningful contribution to the regional breeding program,” she said.
“We’re incredibly proud of Tao and Tien, and are thrilled to support this important work in collaboration with other zoos across the region.
“It’s been a privilege to watch Tien nurture her tiny baby and keepers are closely monitoring the new family as they bond during the early days.”
Gibbons are easily identifiable: male gibbons are mostly black, while females are mostly beige. They’re about 4.5kg and 46cm. They eat plants and fruits in the wild but at Wildlife HQ they have a steady diet of vegetables with some nuts, seeds and a small amount of fruit.
Their habitat at the zoo features a sky-high poinciana tree, gardens, open space, running creek and pond. The gibbons have showed amazing agility and grace in the tree, swinging from limb to limb and across ropes.
