Huro Programme

Table of Contents

To contact the Huro Programme in India, call +91-873-185-9161 or +91-936-641-6156 or email svaa50@hotmail.fr.

Huro Programme works for the conservation of the Western Hoolock Gibbon, which is one of the most endangered primate species in the world. They run the Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre in Meghalaya.

They are located in Dakopgre, Tura, Meghalaya.

Key Takeaways

* Works for the conservation of the endangered Western Hoolock Gibbons.

* Runs the Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre in Dakopgre Tura, Meghalaya.

* Creates awareness among the locals regarding the conservation of the endangered gibbon.

Caretaker with 2 young rescued Hoolock Gibbons — Caretaker with young rescued Hoolock Gibbons (Photo Courtesy of Huro Programme)

Rescue: A Ray of Hope

The Western Hoolock Gibbon, native to India’s northeastern states, often finds itself in distress due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts. Western gibbons are rescued and rehabilitated at the Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre (SWRC).

The centre is located at a distance of about 40 km from Tura in the village of Silsotchigre. The local communities and forest officials alert the Huro Programme India and SWRC when they spot these wonderful creatures.

Releasing Gibbon by Huro Programme — The first step toward freedom (Photo Courtesy of Huro Programme)

The Huro Programme India’s Swift and Caring Response

The Huro Programme India’s swift response team rushes to the location of the distressed Western Hoolock Gibbons. With expertise and care, they safely capture the gibbons and ensure their well-being during transportation.

SWRC’s Sanctuary of Recovery

Upon arrival at Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre (SWRC), the rescued gibbons are provided with immediate medical attention. Moreover, SWRC’s skilled veterinarians conduct thorough examinations to assess their health and treat any injuries or illnesses.

Gibbon at at Sonja WRC — Athena at Sonja WRC (Photo Courtesy of Huro Programme)

Caring for the Gibbons

The gibbons are housed in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural environment. Consequently, they receive a balanced diet and are vets monitor them closely to ensure they are adapting well to their temporary sanctuary.

At present, there are thirteen gibbons at the rescue centre, with three of them born in captivity. The others were previously held captive by residents.

They are given proper care as per the guidelines of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) norms. About nine keepers, all from the village, take care of the apes during their stay.

A complete check-up of Gibbon at Sonja Wildlife Rescue — A complete check-up of all the Gibbons at Sonja Wildlife Rescue Center (Photo Courtesy of Huro Programme)

Rehabilitation: Preparing for Freedom

Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre’s team of experts meticulously designs rehabilitation programs tailored to each gibbon’s needs. So, these programs focus on restoring natural behaviors, physical agility, and social interactions.

As the gibbons progress in their rehabilitation journey, they are moved to larger enclosures with trees, ropes, and climbing structures. Consequently, these elements help them regain their agility and confidence.

Huro Programme team is rescueing a gibbon — Kalsin transfer on the release site (Photo Courtesy of Huro Programme)

Release: Back to the Wild

The final step in the journey is the release of the rehabilitated gibbons back into the wild. Furthermore, Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre identifies suitable, protected areas with abundant food sources and compatible groups of gibbons.

Under the watchful eye of Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre’s experts, the gibbons are released into their new home. Subsequently, post-release monitoring ensures they successfully integrate into the wild and thrive in their natural habitat.

The successful release of the little Loris (Photo Courtesy of Huro Programme)

Huro Programme Awareness Campaigns

– The center has been successfully creating awareness among the locals regarding the conservation of the endangered gibbon.

– Many youth engaged in rehabilitation activities at the center are undergoing training under different ape activists.

– Many researchers and even students from abroad visit the center to conduct research and study about the rarely found ape.

Workshop on Hoolock Gibbons in Meghalaya by Huro Programme) — Workshop on Hoolock Gibbons in Meghalaya (Photo Courtesy of Huro Programme)

Be a Part of the Huro Programme

Now that you know about the incredible work done by the Huro Programme, you might wonder how you can contribute to this noble cause. There are several ways you can get involved:

Primate at Sonja Wildlife Rescue Center — A moment with Lanosha at Sonja Wildlife Rescue Center (Photo Courtesy of Huro Programme)

Volunteering

If you have a passion for teaching, mentoring, or community work, consider becoming a volunteer. Your time and expertise can make a significant impact on the lives of those in need.

Western Hoolock Gibbon infant receiving care and treatment (Photo Courtesy of Huro Programme)

Donating

Even a small donation can go a long way in supporting the Huro Programme’s initiatives. Moreover, your financial contribution can help fund scholarships, set up new CLCs, and provide essential educational resources.

Caretaker with young rescued Hoolock Gibbons — Sanchi with young rescued Hoolock Gibbons Athena and Lanosha at Sonja WRC (Photo Courtesy of Huro Programme)

Advocacy

Spread the word about the Huro Programme and the importance of education for all. Moreover, use your voice to advocate for equal access to quality education, urging others to join the cause.

Awareness campaign by the Huro Programme — Awareness campaign (Photo Courtesy of Huro Programme)

Check out my Endangered Asian Species Trust (EAST) blog!

Follow the Huro Programme on Social Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HuroProgramme/

X: https://x.com/huroprogramme?lang=en

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Huroprogramme

Parasites check at Sonja WRC (Photo Courtesy of Huro Programme)

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