More than just a cute name!

We’re celebrating Endangered Species Day 2023 with our endangered female bokiboky, who recently arrived at Marwell to join our resident male, Nilo!

Lilith, who arrived at the zoo in May, is gaining confidence quickly and it is hoped that the pair will contribute to the future of their species with offspring in time. Both Lilith and Nilo are part of the EAZA Ex-situ Programme EEP, a population management programme for endangered animals in European zoos.

The programme is carefully managed to ensure healthy populations of zoo animals that safeguard the future of species that are vulnerable and face the potential of extinction in the wild. The scheme makes recommendations about which animals should breed and advises when animals need to move from one zoo to another to make this possible.

Bokiboky, are an endangered species of mongoose that only originates from the forests of Western Madagascar. It is thought that there are fewer than 10,000 bokiboky left in their native habitat and numbers continue to decrease.

In the wild bokiboky, also known as narrow-striped mongoose, sleep in burrows or the hollows of trees. They are often found in areas with lots of baobab trees.

Carrie Arnold, Carnivores Team Leader, said: “This species is declining in the wild and there are only five UK zoos that house bokiboky, which are all playing a vital part in the species survival.

“They are part of the EEP so hopefully they will breed one day.”

Endangered Species Day is a global awareness event that occurs every year on the third Friday of May. It aims to raise awareness of animals and plants facing the threat of extinction in the wild, whilst making people aware of the need for a sustainable way of living.

How you can make a difference

• Share this story and others like it to help raise awareness of endangered species.
• Donate to organisations working to help animals and plants facing extinction – our Amazon wish list includes lots of items that our keepers have requested to help look after our animals.
• Volunteer to help out at a wildlife organisation. We’re often looking for enthusiastic volunteers.
• Find ways of informing yourself such as books, websites and events that focus on endangered species – there’s lots of information, facts and news about our animals here on our website.
• Leave a wildlife organisation a legacy gift in your will.
• Organise an event to raise awareness/funds for wildlife conservation.