Binturong Arctictis binturong conservation: the relationship between the zoo community and ABConservation for an integrated conservation programme in Palawan, Philippines

Abstract

Zoological institutions play an ever-greater role in awareness of biodiversity and are increasingly involved in conservation initiatives. The Binturong Arctictis binturong is an elusive and poorly known carnivore of the family Viverridae, found in South East Asian ecosystems. This species, affected by diverse human-related threat processes, is listed as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. This paper reports on the collaborative efforts involving the Binturong European Endangered Species Programme, the French non-governmental organization ABConservation, the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, the zoo community and researchers at the Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris (France), all aimed at the conservation of Binturongs. The resulting multidisciplinary initiatives allow the development of an integrated conservation programme for this species in Palawan (Philippines), including community awareness, education programmes, research projects and empowerment of range communities in nature conservancy. Zoos contributed significantly to the development of the field initiatives of ABConservation. Participation of zoos in field programmes for conservation is beneficial for both parties, because zoos support conservation through funding, raising awareness and expertise, and at the same time they acquire increased knowledge about the species they have in their care, and gain relevance in defining their role and missions.