Sri Lankan zoo seeks gaur for reintroduction

[DesertRhino150]

Sri Lanka is currently looking to import a herd of up to six gaur, comprising a bull and three to five cows, in order to establish a breeding programme with the eventual aim of reintroducing them to the country. It is hoped that the herd will breed over a roughly five year period and provide at least a dozen animals for a trial release. The intention is for the gaur to be housed at Pinnawala Zoo.

Gaur are believed to have become extinct in Sri Lanka in around the 17th century. The animal is still remembered in folklore in the central part of the island, and in the many place names that carry the prefix 'Gawara'. It is not entirely known why gaur became extinct here, but some experts think it may have been due to hunting as a rite of passage to demonstrate the courage of the king's bodyguard.

More information can be found in the link below:
Sri Lanka seeks Indian gaurs for reintroduction into the wild

 

[Kestrel]

At a point where the country is in the dumps financially, it would be stupid to spend money on a species that no longer lives within the island and totally overlooking the animals that are already struggling.

 

[Jana]

At a point where the country is in the dumps financially, it would be stupid to spend money on a species that no longer lives within the island and totally overlooking the animals that are already struggling.

Maybe they hope it would bring in more tourists and see it as investment?

 

[Jurek7]

In most countries, some parts function well and others not. It is not uncommon that a generally poor country has a posh urban centre, zoo or some reserves.

BTW, I wish all the best to people of Sri Lanka. I visited it, wonderful country, wildlife and people, I hope they will soon overcome their recent bancrupcy.