Aizawl Zoo Welcomes Zamphu, An Orphaned Female Binturong

Aizawl Zoo Welcomes Zamphu: The young orphaned bearcat, which is the official mascot of the state zoo, was discovered abandoned.

In a significant milestone for wildlife conservation in Mizoram, the Aizawl Zoological Park has welcomed a female infant binturong, named Zamphu, meaning “bearcat” in the Mizo language. The young orphaned bearcat, which is the official mascot of the state zoo, was discovered abandoned in the dense jungles of Lunglei District by villagers from the remote village of Dengsur.

Wildlife officials suspect that the mother of the baby binturong may have been killed, leaving the infant alone in the wilderness. Upon finding the vulnerable animal, the villagers promptly informed wildlife authorities, who swiftly rescued the orphan and transported her to Aizawl for specialised care and rehabilitation. Due to her fragile condition, officials decided to house Zamphu at the Aizawl Zoo, symbolising the zoo’s commitment to conservation.

The arrival of Zamphu is particularly significant, as the last binturong at the zoo passed away three years ago, leaving the facility without its iconic mascot. Expressing their excitement, zoo officials emphasised the importance of this species in the zoo’s identity and conservation efforts.

Binturongs, scientifically known as Arctictis Binturong, are listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List due to threats like habitat destruction and illegal wildlife trafficking.

With Zamphu’s arrival, zoo authorities aim to create public awareness about the declining population of binturongs and bolster ongoing conservation initiatives.

Also Read: Mizoram: 26-Year-Old Cyclist Dies in Tragic Road Accident While Participating in EcoFest Rally, Aizawl

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