Posted November 30, 2022 in New Arrivals
Squirrel Monkey Family Grows Again!
On 23rd November, female Squirrel monkey, Milu, gave birth to a single offspring sired by our male, Malcolm!
UPDATE August 2023 – our juvenile Squirrel Monkey has now been confirmed as female and named Lola!
We are delighted to be able to announce the arrival of another addition to our group of squirrel monkeys here at Colchester Zoo. Milu is an experienced mum, having previously welcomed three offspring. For now, Milu will carry the new arrival around on her back until it is strong enough to explore and climb on its own.
The new addition is yet to be named by the Animal Care Team but we will be sure to let you know when they have decided upon what it shall be called.
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. Squirrel monkeys are very social animals and can live in large groups of 30 to 50 individuals in the wild!
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. Be sure to try and spot our new arrival on your next visit!
