Monkey species on verge of extinction receives a vital boost - Marwell celebrates with special Mother's Day Adoption Package

We are delighted to announce the recent birth of rare Cotton-top Tamarin twins, one of the most endangered monkey species in the world.

Cotton-tops are facing extinction from their native home in Columbia as many were taken during the 1960s and 70s for use in biomedical research. Today, their greatest threat is destruction of their natural habitat, as well as live capture for the pet trade. Sadly, the illegal trade continues despite international laws condemning such activity. It is believed that there are more Cotton-tops in captivity than in the wild - less than 2000 remain in their natural environment today.

The twins, which zoo keepers have called Zambrono and Tolü (named after places near the Los Coloradus Sanctuary in Columbia), and their mum are doing well. The Cotton-tops live in a small family group and although the twins are currently being nursed and lovingly cared for by their mum, Magdalena, dad is keen to pull his weight and also shares the baby responsibilities. Both parents keep one of the twins with them at all times by the usual mode of travel for any baby monkey – their backs of course!

Shelley Parkes, Head Keeper and section manager for the Cotton-tops said: “We are extremely proud that over 50 Cotton-tops have been born at Marwell. Magdalena and her partner Cauca are particularly successful - the latest arrivals are their fourth set of twins. We are all really pleased that the twins are healthy, and hopefully will one day also contribute to our successful breeding programme to safeguard the continued survival of these fascinating little monkeys.”

To recognize the twin’s mum devotion to her babies, Marwell has put a special Cotton-top Tamarin Adoption Package together for Mother’s Day. The package costs £35 and includes a year’s adoption, welcome letter, certificate with a picture of a Cotton-top Tamarin and a fact sheet containing lots of interesting facts about tamarins. The lucky mum’s name will also be displayed on a plaque outside the enclosure for everyone to see. The adoption also includes an admission ticket to Marwell – to use at any time during 2007.

Magdalena, along with any of Marwell’s mums can also be adopted online. Simply follow the link to the animal adoptions. Alternatively phone 01962 777988 for an application form - please note there is no limit as to how many people can adopt the pair.

The closing date is Wednesday 14th March for delivery in time for Mother’s Day.

 

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