Home / Environment / Rare Tree Kangaroo Born at Chester Zoo
Rare Tree Kangaroo Born at Chester Zoo
14 Jan
Summary
- A male Goodfellow's tree kangaroo joey was born as part of an international breeding program.
- The joey weighed 1.85kg, developing in its mother's pouch after a jellybean-sized start.
- Conservation efforts focus on protecting this species from hunting and deforestation threats.
A significant milestone in conservation has been achieved with the birth of a rare male Goodfellow's tree kangaroo joey at Chester Zoo. This event is part of a vital international breeding program dedicated to the survival of this endangered species, which is under severe threat in its natural habitat.
The joey, a result of careful monitoring and expert care, weighed 1.85kg after developing unseen within its mother's pouch. Its birth, following that of another joey in 2023, highlights the challenges in breeding these animals, as each birth represents a substantial energy investment for the mother.
Conservationists underscore that births like these are critical for securing a future for Goodfellow's tree kangaroos, which are rapidly declining due to hunting and deforestation in Papua New Guinea. The knowledge gained from this successful breeding effort will aid global conservation initiatives.
