Years ago, it seemed impossible to recover species like the Atlas lion, Iberian lynx, and northern white rhinoceros. However, thanks to captive breeding and scientific advancements, these species are being saved from extinction.
The northern white rhinoceros is a striking example. With only two females left, the species was considered doomed. However, science has offered a glimmer of hope through in vitro fertilization, a surrogate mother, and the creation of 33 embryos.
According to Thomas Hildebrandt, head of the BioRescue Project, “The embryos are of excellent quality and derive from two different parents. This is really good news.”
Recovery of the Iberian Lynx
The Atlas lion, once considered extinct, has been saved through captive breeding. Azghar, a cub born at the Rabat zoo, is proof of this success. The Iberian lynx has also seen a significant increase in population, from less than 100 to over 2,000 in just 22 years.
The European mink is now facing a critical situation, with only 142 individuals remaining. However, a breeding center in La Rioja, Spain, offers new hope for the species. As Eva Izquierdo from the WWF species team in Spain notes, “This species does not breed well in captivity, but we are optimistic about the center’s potential.”
Other Conservation Successes
Other species, such as the Siamese crocodile and the panda bear, have also seen positive developments. A litter of Siamese crocodiles was recently discovered in Cambodia, and two cubs were born at the Hong Kong Zoo, offering hope for the future of these species.