Viw Magazine

Business Coach

  • Written by Marissa Parrott, Reproductive Biologist, Wildlife Conservation & Science, Zoos Victoria, and Honorary Research Associate, BioSciences, University of Melbourne

Tree kangaroos are so unusual that when Europeans first encountered them in Australia in 1872, they were sceptical. Who would believe a kangaroo could climb a tree?

But the recent birth of Chimbu – a Goodfellow’s tree kangaroo at Healesville Sanctuary – gives us the chance to watch one of these unique, and very rare, creatures grow up.

Read more: In the remote Cambodian jungles, we made sure rare Siamese crocodiles would have enough food

The Goodfellow’s tree kangaroo is a threatened species found in forests in the Central Cordillera mountain ranges of Papua New Guinea, from sea level to high in the clouds.

Chimbu’s birth in September is the latest success of a complex web of international conservation. Zoos and other organisations around the world transfer and match tree-kangaroos to avoid inbreeding and sustain a genetically healthy captive population.

Chimbu is named after an area in Papua New Guinea where his wild cousins live.

A climbing kangaroo? That’s roo-diculous!

Europeans in New Guinea first described tree kangaroos in 1828. While there have been plenty of disagreements about who is related to whom, we now know there are 14 distinct species.

Early explorers considered the very idea of a climbing roo ridiculous, but these animals are specially adapted to life in the trees. They likely all evolved from a terrestrial ancestor earlier in the Pliocene, 5.3 million to 2.5 million years ago.

Tree kangaroos look like marsupial bears, but can climb trees like monkeys. Healesville Sanctuary, Author provided

Tree kangaroos have much longer forelimbs than their ground-dwelling cousins and their claws are much larger and strongly curved. This provides much stronger grip when climbing trees and gripping smaller branches.

They still have large strong hind limbs, but their feet are shorter, broader and have a long curved claw on each toe.

Read more: This extinct kangaroo had a branch-crunching bite to rival today's giant pandas

The pad of the hindfoot is single, large and with prominent grooves, all of which enhance the animal’s grip when climbing and walking in the canopy. The tails of tree kangaroos aren’t capable of grasping things like a monkey’s, but they’re long and often held out behind the animal for balance.

But perhaps one of the most obvious differences between tree kangaroos and their terrestrial cousins is their adorably small bear-like ears.

Threatened with extinction

Two species of tree kangaroos are found in the forests of northeast Australia and 12 species in the jungles of New Guinea. All species of tree kangaroos are threatened with extinction in New Guinea, although much about these animals is unknown.

The current population size is unknown, but this species of tree kangaroo is thought to be declining in the wild. Healesville Sanctuary, Author provided

Traditionally hunted for food, hassled by dogs and threatened by the destruction of their forest habitat, the soft thud of tree roo feet among the trees is falling silent.

But conservation work in their natural habitat and through a globally managed tree kangaroo captive breeding program is helping not only the species, but the people who live alongside them.

Baby Chimbu – a new hope

Chimbu was born in Victoria, but is really an international fellow. His mother Mani came from the National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra, and his father Bagam arriving from Kreffeld Zoo in Germany.

Baby Chimbu brings hope to a species nearing extinction. Healesville Sanctuary, Author provided

Mani and Bagam were paired based on the recommendation of scientists and managers who maintain a studbook of Goodfellow’s tree kangaroos around the world.

These gorgeous animals are generally chocolate brown on the back, shading to pale brown or cream on the face and belly, and often with a single or double narrow pale stripe down the back.

Read more: 'Give us a sniff, love': giving marsupials scents from suitors helps breeding programs

Their beautiful striped tails are one of their most noticeable features. And while the current population size is unknown, this tree kangaroo is thought to be declining due to hunting for food, local trading for cultural purposes, and habitat destruction through local deforestation and shifting cultivation.

Managing tree kangaroos around the globe

The captive population of Goodfellow’s tree kangaroos in our region is coordinated by the Australasian Zoos and Aquarium Association.

The plan is to maintain long-term healthy populations that are genetically diverse, stable and show natural behaviours to ensure the animals are thriving in their zoo homes.

Chimbu ventured out of his mum’s pouch to sample some tasty salad. Healesville Sanctuary, Author provided

In turn, the regional program is part of a global species management plan coordinated by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

A key feature of these regional/global management programs is to avoid any inbreeding. Detailed histories of all animals in the population are closely managed, and suitable breeding pairs are identified by specialist zoo keepers called “Studbook Keepers”.

This is why Chimbu was born from a long-distance romance and travel by his parents.

Your cuppa can help

Supporting wildlife conservation in the wild and with local communities is the driving force for zoos globally.

An international network of captive tree kangaroos helps conserve this species. Healesville Sanctuary, Author provided

Although the Goodfellow’s tree kangaroos are officially endangered, we don’t know much about them in the wild. Right now, the Wildlife Conservation Society is working out how many are in the wild and where, so scientists can develop a detailed conservation program.

Cousins of the Goodfellow’s tree kangaroo, such as the Matschie’s tree kangaroo, are more well-known and already have conservation programs in place.

Read more: Yes, kangaroos are endangered – but not the species you think

To help save Matschie’s tree kangaroo, community programs have emerged to address the economic conditions fuelling their over-hunting. Zoos Victoria has partnered with the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program to sell coffee grown by Papua New Guinean villagers. This helps create sustainable alternative income and fund conservation.

Collecting coffee beans for YUS conservation coffee in Papua New Guinea. Ryan Hawke/Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program, Author provided

Income from coffee sales generates much greater access to healthcare and education, major hurdles in these remote villages. Money from sale of the coffee beans is the only regular income into these villages.

So if you do decide to visit Chimbu at the Healesville Sanctuary (in person or virtually) remember you can also buy some coffee to help his wild cousins.

This article is co-authored by Chris Banks, Manager International Conservation, Zoos Victoria, who has worked with tree kangaroo and community conservation for over 20 years

Authors: Marissa Parrott, Reproductive Biologist, Wildlife Conservation & Science, Zoos Victoria, and Honorary Research Associate, BioSciences, University of Melbourne

Read more https://theconversation.com/meet-chimbu-the-blue-eyed-bear-eared-tree-kangaroo-your-cuppa-can-help-save-his-species-135033

Important Instructions for Australians Living in Camper Trailers

Living in a camper trailer offers Australians a unique way to embrace adventure and freedom while exploring the vast and beautiful landsca...

Maintaining Your Mini Digger: Tips for Longevity and Performance

If you're a proud owner or operator of a mini digger in Australia, you understand the importance of keeping your equipment in top-notch co...

Transform Your Business To Success: The Role Of Branding Agencies In Melbourne

In the bustling city of Melbourne, where every corner tells a story of innovation and creativity, the importance of branding cannot be o...

Revealing The Timeless Appeal Of Ladies' Bodysuits

Fashion has always been a canvas for self-expression, a realm where innovation and tradition intertwine to create garments that not only a...

What Is Crude Oil, and Why Is It Important to Investors?

Crude oil is the lifeblood of the global economy. As an investor, understanding the ins and outs of this vital commodity can be crucial to...

A Sweet Tooth's Guide to the Best Cakes in Melbourne

Indulge your sweet tooth in Melbourne's finest cakes! Brunetti offers decadent chocolate delights like Ciambella Chocolate Teacakes. Mel...

Alan Williams' Impact on Chicago's Defense: Analyzing Key Changes and Improvements

When Alan Williams stepped onto the field as the defensive coordinator for Chicago, expectations were high. His reputation for crafting di...

Understanding the Different Types of Pickup Truck Car Covers

Picking the right truck cover starts with understanding the various types available on the market. Each type is designed to address specif...

Understanding Commercial Plumbing in Adelaide

Introduction In the bustling city of Adelaide, where businesses thrive across diverse sectors, the seamless operation of commercial facil...

Driving into the Future: The Evolution of the Automotive Market in Australia - Trends and Predictions

Examining “the evolution of the automotive market in Australia: trends and predictions” reveals a swift embrace of electric vehicles a...

Crocs: Defying Fashion Norms and Redefining Individuality

In the realm of contemporary footwear, a singular item has emerged as a polarizing yet undeniably iconic choice: the versatile rubber shoe...

Benefits of Network Monitoring Devices in Businesses

In an era where seamless connectivity underpins business operations, ensuring a robust and secure network is paramount for any enterprise...

Tips for Staying Socially Active as a Senior

Staying socially active as a senior can be a challenging task. It becomes particularly difficult as mobility decreases, and friends and fa...

The Benefits of Living in Nature

Have you ever dreamed of buying a mountain property for sale, living immersed in nature, and being surrounded by the beauty of trees and w...

Affordable and Chic: A Guide to Stylish Splashback Tiling on a Budget

When it comes to kitchen renovations, splashback tiling stands out as a game-changer. Not only does it serve a practical purpose by protec...

How to Choose the Perfect Trailer for Your Needs

Whether you're hauling equipment for work or embarking on a weekend adventure, selecting the right trailer is essential. With a myriad of ...

Is There a downside to Taking collagen peptides? Understanding the Side Effects for a Healthier You

Introduction  Lately, everyone seems to be talking about collagen peptides. They're a type of protein that comes from collagen, a key pa...

The Best Materials for Living Room Plantation Shutters: A Comparison

Plantation shutters are a timeless and elegant window treatment that adds both style and functionality to any living space. When it comes ...

Top 5 Home Renovations That Increase Property Value

Enhancing the value of your property is a common goal for homeowners, whether they plan to sell soon or simply want to boost their investm...

Discover the Elegance of Sheer Curtains in Melbourne: A Guide to Custom-Made Sheer Elegance

When it comes to enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of your living spaces, the right choice of window treatments can make all the ...

Tomorrow Business Growth