Matschie's Tree Kangaroo Joey's Debut at Bronx Zoo

SOURCE www.npr.org
A Matschie's tree kangaroo joey made its public debut at the Bronx Zoo in New York, born in December and the second of its species born at the zoo since 2021. The species is endangered due to human activities like habitat destruction and hunting.

Key Points

  • The joey was born in December and is the second of its species born at the Bronx Zoo since 2021
  • Tree kangaroos are native to the Huon Peninsula in Papua New Guinea and are smaller than Australia's red kangaroo
  • There are only around 2,500 tree kangaroos in the wild and 42 in captivity

Pros

  • The birth of the tree kangaroo joey contributes to preserving genetic diversity among endangered animals
  • Wildlife restoration programs, like those at zoos, play a crucial role in conservation efforts

Cons

  • The Matschie's tree kangaroo species is threatened by human activities such as habitat destruction and hunting