Introduction

On 7 May 2026, the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust successfully released fifteen critically endangered pygmy hogs back into the Kuribeel grasslands of Manas National Park in Assam, India. This event highlights a major milestone for the world’s smallest wild pig and underscores the power of focused conservation work.

Conservation Efforts and Program

The Trust began its pygmy hog conservation program in 1996, when six individuals were captured from the grasslands to establish a captive‑breeding population. Since then, the program has grown, rescuing the species from near extinction after it was thought lost. Over the years, the Trust has reintroduced a total of 194 hogs into the wild, restoring a genetic reservoir and strengthening the species’ resilience.

Key to the program’s success are rigorous monitoring techniques. After each release, teams employ camera traps, sign surveys, and radio‑telemetry on five specially tagged hogs to track behavior, survival, and habitat use. Dr Parag Jyoti Deka, director of the conservation programme, emphasizes that these data‑driven strategies allow continuous improvement and better protection for the species.

Future Goals and Significance

The Trust’s five‑year plan aims to release about 80 additional pygmy hogs, with a long‑term goal of establishing a self‑sustaining wild population of roughly 300 individuals by 2040. This ambitious target not only safeguards the pygmy hog but also revitalizes the grassland ecosystem that supports many other threatened species. Dr Vinay Gupta, chief wildlife warden of Assam, hailed the release as a “remarkable conservation achievement” essential for restoring grassland health.

Beyond the immediate benefits for the hogs, the project serves as a model for collaborative wildlife conservation, demonstrating how captive breeding, scientific monitoring, and community engagement can reverse species decline.

Conclusion

The release of fifteen pygmy hogs on 7 May 2026 stands as a testament to the dedication of the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust and its partners. With continued releases and vigilant monitoring, the hope is that the pygmy hog will thrive once again in the wild, contributing to a richer, more resilient ecosystem in Assam.