Assessment Summary
A Risk Assessment for the Northern white-cheeked gibbon, Nomascus leucogenys has been conducted by the Department.
As a key component of risk assessment for import into Tasmania, conventional climate modelling was applied to compare the state’s environment with the species’ natural range CLIMATCH revealed “very low” potential for suitable habitat across the entire state.
The risk assessment determined the Northern white-cheeked gibbon as moderately dangerous to humans, having a low establishment risk and with a low consequence of establishment. It was therefore proposed the species be assigned to a moderate threat category.
Following the initial risk assessment, the Department considers permitting the importation of animals assessed as ‘moderate risk’ into the State as long as appropriate mitigation measures, enforced through a wildlife exhibition licence, can be identified and applied.
Mitigation options to reduce the risk associated with importing Northern white-cheeked gibbon include:
Limiting importation to registered wildlife parks or zoos to ensure the holding facility meets the stringent keeping standards Tasmania applies to all institutions.
Requiring any wildlife park or zoo to submit a Northern white-cheeked gibbon Species Management Plan (including enclosure details) prior to import.
The wildlife exhibition facility can clearly demonstrate they have proficient keepers for that particular species.
Assessment documentation