Posted November 30, 2021 in News
New Addition to the Troop
On 8th November, female squirrel monkey, Milu, gave birth to a single offspring sired by our male, Malcolm! Squirrel monkeys are very social animals and can live in large troops of 30 to 50 individuals, so we are delighted to be able to announce the arrival of another addition to our growing group!
Milu is an experienced mum, having previously welcomed two offspring who are still here with us at Colchester Zoo. For now, Milu will carry the new arrival around on her back until it is strong enough to explore and climb the habitat for itself. Milu’s baby is growing healthy and strong and we’re sure it won’t be long before it is sexed by our Animal Care Team.
Images by ©Josh Dennington
Squirrel monkeys are one of the most adaptable monkeys in South America. They have very dextrous hands which help them to move with great agility along branches and through undergrowth whilst searching for food such as fruit, nuts, seeds, and insects.
Although they are registered as ‘Least Concern’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, squirrel monkeys are affected every year by the exotic pet trade and the deforestation and destruction of their home.
Our family of squirrel monkeys can be seen enjoying their natural surrounding at the Heart of the Amazon. Why not stop by and see if you can spot our new arrival?
Did you know… Squirrel monkeys will live near capuchin monkeys because the capuchins react quickly to danger alerting all animals nearby.
