Twycross Zoo, a leading conservation charity in the UK, is home to over 70 different species, many of which are endangered. The zoo has a strong focus on threatened primates and species with a conservation breeding role, and it participates in European breeding programs to maintain healthy ex-situ populations.
Amur Leopard: Bringing Back the Rarest Big Cat
One of the most critically endangered species at Twycross Zoo is the Amur leopard. With only around 90 individuals left in the wild, the zoo has celebrated the success of its conservation efforts, which have resulted in the birth of four Amur leopard cubs over the past ten years. These cubs have been reintroduced to other zoos across the UK and Europe, and it is expected that this latest generation will be reintroduced back into the wild.
Protecting the Endangered François’ Langur
Twycross Zoo also supports the conservation of other endangered species, such as the François’ langur, which is one of the world’s most endangered primates. The zoo recently celebrated the birth of a new-born François’ langur, which brings the number of individuals in its troop to eight. This birth is especially significant as the wild population of François’ langurs continues to decline due to habitat deforestation, and there are only around 2000 individuals remaining in the wild.
Conservation Strategy and Sustainability Efforts
The zoo’s activities are guided by a Conservation Strategy (2023-2030) that aligns with the BIAZA conservation policy, EAZA conservation standards, and the targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Visitors to Twycross Zoo can support the conservation of endangered species by purchasing items from the zoo’s Amazon Wishlist, which helps to provide enrichment for the animals and maintain their habitats. The zoo is also committed to becoming environmentally sustainable and minimizing its contribution to global climate change.
Endangered Species at Twycross Zoo
Twycross Zoo is home to a variety of endangered species, including:
| Species | Conservation Status |
|---|---|
| Amur Leopard | Critically Endangered |
| François’ Langur | Endangered |
| Sumatran Tiger | Critically Endangered |
| Bornean Orangutan | Critically Endangered |
| Siamang | Endangered |
| Red Panda | Endangered |
| Grevy’s Zebra | Endangered |
These species face various threats in the wild, such as habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. Twycross Zoo’s conservation efforts aim to protect and preserve these endangered animals, both through captive breeding programs and supporting conservation initiatives in their native habitats.
Visitor Engagement and Support
Visitors to Twycross Zoo can play a crucial role in supporting the conservation of endangered species. By purchasing items from the zoo’s Amazon Wishlist, visitors can contribute to the enrichment and care of the animals, as well as the maintenance of their habitats. The zoo also offers educational programs and interactive exhibits that help visitors learn about the importance of conservation and the threats facing endangered species.
Conclusion
Twycross Zoo is a leading conservation charity in the UK that is making significant contributions to the protection of endangered species, particularly threatened primates and species with a conservation breeding role. Through its conservation efforts, the zoo has celebrated the successful birth and reintroduction of critically endangered species like the Amur leopard and François’ langur. Visitors can support these efforts by purchasing items from the zoo’s Amazon Wishlist and engaging with the educational programs and exhibits.
References:
– Twycross Zoo. (2023). Twycross Zoo make their mark on Endangered Species Day with success of conserving one of the world’s rarest big cats. Retrieved from https://twycrosszoo.org/latest-news/twycross-zoo-make-their-mark-on-endangered-species-day-with-success-of-conserving-one-of-the-world-s-rarest-big-cats/
– Twycross Zoo. (2023). Conservation at Twycross Zoo. Retrieved from https://twycrosszoo.org/our-charity/conservation/
– Twycross Zoo. (2024). SPRING HAS SPRUNG: Twycross Zoo celebrates the birth of endangered François’ langur. Retrieved from https://twycrosszoo.org/latest-news/spring-has-sprung-twycross-zoo-celebrates-the-birth-of-endangered-francois-langur/
– Twycross Zoo. (2023). Support our animals. Retrieved from https://twycrosszoo.org/explore/animals/
– Twycross Zoo. (2023). About Twycross Zoo. Retrieved from https://twycrosszoo.org/our-charity/about-us/.