Amazonia welcomes baby emperor tamarin to its collection of primates

Amazonia, located within M&D’s Strathclyde Theme Park, has recently welcomed a new addition to its collection of primates – a baby emperor tamarin. This marks the first time that this endangered species of monkey has been successfully bred by the team at the Lanarkshire family attraction.

Emperor tamarins are small monkeys indigenous to the Amazon Basin, with populations in Peru, Brazil, and Bolivia. Easily distinguishable by their long, white whiskers that resemble a moustache, these monkeys play a vital role in the ecosystem of the rainforest. The birth of the baby tamarin holds great significance as it is part of the European Endangered species breeding Programme (EEP) overseen by the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA).

The primary goal of EEPs is to ensure the well-being and sustainability of animal populations within EAZA and beyond. With over 500 animal species under its management, including the emperor tamarin, the programme aims to maintain thriving populations of these endangered animals. The team at Amazonia is thrilled with the new arrival and is inviting the public to participate in naming the baby tamarin, whose parents are known as Jeeza (father) and Neeps (mother).

According to Zoologist Amanda Gott, the gestation period for emperor tamarins lasts between 140 to 145 days, after which females give birth to one, two, or occasionally three offspring. Adult males actively participate in caring for the newborns, even assisting with the birthing process. The mother typically carries and feeds the young every two to three hours for about 30 minutes, while the males take over nurturing duties.

Amazonia, known for its temperature-controlled tropical indoor forest, houses over 60 species, providing a unique environment for families to learn and have fun. From monkeys and parrots to snakes and frogs, visitors can marvel at a variety of creatures in this tropical paradise. The baby tamarin will be carried by adults until it is six to seven weeks old, after which it will start exploring its surroundings independently while still returning for occasional piggyback rides. The young monkeys are weaned and become independent after two to three months.

With the birth of this baby emperor tamarin, Amazonia continues its commitment to conservation and education, offering visitors a chance to connect with wildlife and learn more about these fascinating creatures in a safe and immersive environment.

In conclusion, the successful breeding of the endangered emperor tamarin at Amazonia is a testament to the dedication of the team to conservation efforts. This new addition not only contributes to the preservation of a vulnerable species but also provides visitors with the opportunity to engage with and learn about the importance of protecting our planet’s biodiversity. The public’s involvement in naming the baby tamarin further fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility towards wildlife conservation.