Forest Connectivity for Gibbon Conservation

Hoolock gibbons depend on continuous forest connections to move safely. Maintaining and restoring these habitat corridors is important for supporting their natural movement patterns and ensuring long-term population stability. As canopy dwellers, gibbons require continuous tree cover, and in fragmented landscapes this may be supported through canopy bridges such as ropeways between disconnected forest patches across settlements and other human infrastructure. This project focuses on identifying key corridors between fragmented habitats to improve connectivity for long-term gibbon conservation.

We conduct surveys across Lower Dibang Valley to identify and document potential sites for establishing aerial corridors that can link key areas used by gibbons. We also review existing literature to understand best practices, including suitable materials, design approaches, and setup methods for building canopy bridges for hoolock gibbons. Based on these findings, we prepare a detailed report with maps and submit it to relevant government stakeholders, including the Forest Department and other authorities.

About Dibang Team 

The Dibang Team is a collective of Idu Mishmi people from the twin districts of the Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, India. We have been working to conserve the region’s bio-cultural diversity while creating sustainable livelihoods. We combine Western science with Idu knowledge, culture, and spirituality to strengthen our cultural and traditional institutions, ensuring that the region’s biocultural diversity continues to thrive for generations.