Buff-cheeked Sylvester to help gibbon conservation efforts at Pretoria Zoo
SANBI National Zoological Gardens is aiding international efforts in the conservation of the buff-cheeked gibbon by welcoming Sylvester from France to its fold.
Sylvester the male buff-cheeked gibbon is settling in his new home at the Pretoria Zoo after his mandatory quarantine.
The gibbon arrived in South Africa on May 26 from La Teste de Buch Zoo in France.
He has been chosen to play a crucial role in the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria studbook programme.
SANBI National Zoological Garden (NZG) regards his addition to the programme as a significant step towards the conservation of this endangered species.
The NZG has participated in this programme since 1988, with 15 offspring produced for the initiative.
“Sylvester has already been introduced to his carefully selected partner, and there are already promising signs that they have bonded. The current focus is to make the pair as happy as possible and then to let nature take its course,” said Tracy Rehse, director of conservation at the NZG.
Rehse believes this carefully curated pairing will make a valuable contribution to the continued conservation efforts of the precious species.
Buff-cheeked gibbons (Nomascus gabriellae) are native to Cambodia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and Vietnam.
“These remarkable primates exhibit fascinating colour changes during their lifespans. At birth they are born blond, but within the first year, their fur transitions to a striking black hue,” said Rehse.
Males retain their black fur throughout their lives, with distinctive golden cheeks that set them apart.
On the other hand, the females change back to the blonde coloration as they reach sexual maturity, except for a notable black cap atop their heads.
“The arrival of Sylvester marks a remarkable milestone in our ongoing commitment to conservation efforts,” said Rehse.
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