Natural wonders: (From left) The Hose’s langur, Hose’s civet and tufted ground squirrel are among the rare species recently recorded in Sabah. — Photos courtesy of 1StopBorneo Wildlife
New discoveries of rare wildlife species still abound
KOTA KINABALU: From misty mountain peaks to dense lowland forests, Sabah continues to reveal new natural wonders, with rare and elusive wildlife species still being recorded decades after researchers first began exploring the state’s rugged landscapes.
Among the rarest animals drawing attention is the Hose’s langur, considered the rarest monkey species in Sabah.
Seldom seen, it was only recently spotted by park rangers working with local conservation group 1StopBorneo Wildlife.
Other recent records include the Kinabalu ferret badger, a species found only on the peaks of Mount Kinabalu and the Crocker Range; the Hose’s civet, believed to be among the rarest and most elusive civets in the world and typically associated with sheltered montane forests; and the tufted ground squirrel, which inhabits highland forest areas.
1StopBorneo Wildlife founder Shavez Cheema said the steady stream of discoveries underscores why conservation and scientific research in Sabah must continue – not only to protect the environment, but also to support the state’s long-term economic and social development.
He said Sabah’s challenging terrain and secretive wildlife have made research difficult in the past, but persistent efforts have yielded remarkable results.
“Advances over the last 25 years have revealed an astonishing diversity of species, showcasing Borneo, including Sabah, as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth,” he said.
While pioneering conservationists such as Datuk Dr John Payne laid the groundwork in the 1980s, Shavez said today’s efforts are bolstered by the sustained work of non-governmental organisations operating across the island.
Groups such as the Borneo Nature Foundation, 1StopBorneo Wildlife and the Brunei Nature Society have played a key role in uncovering Borneo’s hidden natural treasures.
“Borneo is home to over 240 mammal species, almost 100 of which are bats. While many larger animals have been well documented, numerous small and cryptic mammals remain obscure, with new records and even new species still emerging,” Shavez said.
Sabah’s varied landscapes – ranging from montane forests to lowland rainforests – continue to surprise researchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
The recent records are also significant indicators of the health and biodiversity of the ecosystems where they were found, Shavez said.
“These latest findings not only enhance our understanding of Borneo’s unique biodiversity, but also highlight the ongoing efforts to ensure these incredible species are protected for future generations,” he added.
