Capuchin Monkeys from South Africa Imports To Bannerghatta Biological Park

In a significant step towards strengthening conservation-oriented zoo management, the Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP) near Bengaluru has imported eight black capped capuchin monkeys from South Africa. The import, carried out under a formal animal exchange programme, reflects India’s growing emphasis on scientific wildlife management, genetic diversity, and adherence to global conservation standards.

About the Imported Species

• The imported animals are black-capped capuchin monkeys, scientifically known as Sapajus apella.
• These primates are native to South America and are known for their high intelligence, social behaviour, and adaptability.
• Capuchin monkeys are often studied for their problem-solving abilities and tool usage.
• Maintaining healthy captive populations of such species requires genetic diversity and enriched environments, making regulated international exchanges essential.

Details of the Import

• A total of eight capuchin monkeys, consisting of four males and four females, were imported from South Africa.
• The animals arrived at Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, and were immediately transported to a designated quarantine facility within Bannerghatta Biological Park.
• As per protocol the monkeys will undergo mandatory post-import health examinations and observation during the quarantine period.
• Only after receiving veterinary clearance will they be introduced into the zoo enclosures.

Regulatory and Legal Compliance

• The import was carried out in strict compliance with India’s statutory and regulatory framework governing wildlife movement.
• Prior approvals were obtained from multiple authorities, reflecting the layered governance structure in wildlife management.
• The Central Zoo Authority (CZA), New Delhi, granted mandatory approval for the international transfer of animals.
• In addition, No Objection Certificates (NOCs) were secured from the State Chief Wildlife Warden, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB).

Background

• Modern zoological parks are no longer meant only for public display of animals.
• They play a crucial role in ex-situ conservation, captive breeding, education, and research.
• Over time, limited genetic pools in captive populations can lead to inbreeding and health issues.
• To address this, zoos across the world participate in animal exchange programmes, allowing the introduction of new genetic lines.

Key Takeaways

• Bannerghatta Biological Park imported eight capuchin monkeys from South Africa.
• Species imported: Black-capped capuchin (Sapajus apella).
• The import was conducted under an animal exchange programme.
• Central Zoo Authority approval is mandatory for international animal transfers.
• Animal Quarantine Services clearance is required before import into India.

Question

Q. Which zoological park imported eight black-capped capuchin monkeys from South Africa?

A) Arignar Anna Zoological Park
B) Nehru Zoological Park
C) Bannerghatta Biological Park
D) Alipore Zoological Gardens