Drusillas Park in the UK is currently in the midst of a baby boom with a multitude of mini monkeys popping up around the Park! The monkey madness started when Emperor tamarin, Lucy gave birth to the twins pictured above. This species takes its name from the 19th Century Emperor, Wilhelm II of Germany, whom they are said to resemble on account of their distinctive moustaches. The fan-tash-stic pair are becoming more independent everyday and can now be seen playing with their older siblings.
Two silvery marmosets were next to make an appearance (below). The pearl coloured pair were born on August 28 and are thriving under the watchful guidance of proud parents Captain Jack and Hester. Silvery marmosets are native to the forests of Central and South America and usually give birth to twins every five to six months.
More monkey madness below the fold…
Then it was the turn of the red-handed tamarins, who delivered triplets. Keepers made the happy discovery on September 28. All the babies are doing well and prospering. This species usually have two babies at a time which are generally carried around by the father; to have three is rare.
Finally, two critically endangered cotton-topped tamarins arrived. The tiny bundles were born on October 14 and are doing well with the help of Dad, John and Mum, Georgie. Cotton topped tamarins are native to the humid tropical forests of Columbia, where there has been a severe reduction in the population mainly due to the destruction of their habitat. Like many of the animals at Drusillas, the group is part of a European breeding program.
Photo Credit: Drusilla Park
Zoo Manager, Sue Woodgate commented: “We are always excited by new arrivals. It is brilliant to have so many babies born within our breeding programs and they are proving very popular with the public too. Fingers crossed, we are hoping for a few more happy events in the near future.”
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