A Western Hoolock Gibbon was recently recorded using an artificial canopy bridge over a railway line in Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, marking the first documented instance in the world of a hoolock gibbon using such a structure.

Key Highlights

• The crossing was recorded in the Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary in Assam.
• The sanctuary supports only about 120–130 Western Hoolock Gibbons, making conservation efforts crucial.
• The canopy bridge was installed across the electrified Lumding–Dibrugarh railway line, which fragments the forest habitat.

About the Artificial Canopy Bridge

• The current bridge consists of:
  • Double-rope nylon structures.
  • Safety nets for protection.
  • Design suited to the gibbon’s natural movement.
• It was developed following consultations with the Wildlife Institute of India.

About the Western Hoolock Gibbon

• Scientific Name: Hoolock hoolock.

• It is:
  • India’s only ape.
  • A completely arboreal (tree-dwelling) primate.
  • Known for brachiation, a movement in which it swings from branch to branch using its arms.
• Conservation Status:
  • Endangered under the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.
  • Protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Why This Achievement Matters

• Railways, roads, and power lines often cause habitat fragmentation.
• Artificial canopy bridges help:
  • Restore connectivity between isolated forest patches.
  • Reduce wildlife mortality.
  • Improve movement for breeding and feeding.

Global Significance

Similar canopy bridges are used worldwide for:

• Lemurs in Madagascar.
• Sloths in Costa Rica.
• Possums in Australia.
• Monkeys in South Africa.

However, experts emphasize that canopy bridges are a mitigation measure, not a substitute for conserving natural forests and wildlife corridors.

Exam Hook: Prelims Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Western Hoolock Gibbon:

1. It is India’s only ape.
2. It is primarily a ground-dwelling primate.
3. It is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (c)

One-Line Wrap

The successful use of an artificial canopy bridge by the Western Hoolock Gibbon in Assam demonstrates how innovative wildlife-friendly infrastructure can help reduce habitat fragmentation and support the conservation of endangered species.