Understand
Baby squirrel monkey born at Telford zoo
Overview
A baby squirrel monkey has been welcomed at Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World in Telford, joining a troop of eight that arrived from Kent last year. Born during the summer, the infant's sex is currently unknown, but it can be seen clinging to family members in its enclosure. The zoo hopes the new addition will raise awareness about the conservation of the species, which is native to Central and South America and faces threats such as habitat loss and the illegal pet trade.
Key points
- A baby squirrel monkey was born in the summer at Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World in Telford.
- The newborn joins a troop of eight squirrel monkeys brought from a Kent zoo last year.
- The sex of the baby monkey is not yet known, but visitors can see it clinging to family members.
- Squirrel monkeys are native to Central and South American tropical forests and face threats from habitat loss and the illegal pet trade.
- The zoo hopes the new arrival will highlight the importance of animal conservation and protecting rainforest habitats.