Perth Zoo Celebrates Birth of Three Bolivian Squirrel Monkeys
Perth Zoo is currently buzzing with excitement and a touch of delightful chaos following the successful birth of three Bolivian squirrel monkeys. The tiny newcomers, each weighing a mere 150 grams and small enough to fit in the palm of a hand, were born in November, December, and January, respectively.
A Significant Breeding Achievement
This event marks the most successful live birth season for the species since the zoo initiated its breeding program. The births bring the total population of Bolivian squirrel monkeys at Perth Zoo to 14 individuals. The proud parents are Vivo, Estrella, and Sue, each contributing one of the adorable infants to the growing troop.
Liv Paris, a primate keeper at Perth Zoo, expressed her enthusiasm about the new arrivals. "It's absolutely chaos with kids running and playing everywhere," she said. "It's so exciting to watch the social dynamic change as we have more and more babies, and the adult females look after them and the older kids get more involved."
Unique Social Structure and Behavior
Bolivian squirrel monkeys exhibit fascinating social behaviors. They live in groups that can number up to 70 individuals, operating within a matriarchal society where females hold leadership roles. All females in the group participate in raising the young collectively.
"It'll be mum looking after the baby initially," Ms. Paris explained. "Then from the time the babies are about three weeks old, aunties will get involved raising the babies. They'll take turns carrying them and jumping in to rescue them if they get into trouble."
Interestingly, scientific observations have identified Bolivian squirrel monkey offspring as particularly energetic juveniles, contributing to the lively atmosphere in their enclosure.
Public Invited to Name the Newcomers
Perth Zoo is now engaging the community by inviting the public to vote on names for the three new monkeys. The suggested names, inspired by Bolivian native plants, include Andes, Franz, Madidid, Camu, Amboro, Bala, Inga, and Tipu.
Ms. Paris emphasized the importance of this public connection. "The main roles of a modern zoo is to inspire conservation, and one of the really key ways we can do that is by creating a connection with people coming into the zoo," she stated.
"Everyone remembers a really beautiful moment they've had with an animal at the zoo where they've made eye contact and had a magical moment. Being able to come into the zoo and try to spot which one it was you picked the name for is really special. It gives you that additional investment into this animal's life."
This naming initiative aims to foster deeper public engagement with wildlife conservation efforts, highlighting Perth Zoo's commitment to both animal care and community involvement in preserving biodiversity.
