Three new adorable monkeys available to view at Belfast Zoo

Author: Emma DicksonPublished 30th May 2024

Last year Belfast Zoo welcomed three new arrivals to the Colobus monkey family.

The adorable trio have been off show for the last few months while repair work was being done on their house, but Belfast Zoo have announced today that they are now settling into their refurbed home and available to se.

Zoo manager, Alyn Cairns, said “The three new arrivals has been terrific news for us. Colobus monkeys are endangered and quite rare, without the active work of zoos many species like this would simply cease to exist.

Our beautiful babies are now eight months old; the sex of the babies has not been determined yet however the zoo is pleased to report that all babies and mothers are thriving. “

This species uses the “alloparenting” method which means that all females in the group will help to raise the babies as well as the biological mother.

The name “Colobus” means “he cut short” and refers to their stumpy thumbs.

They are natural “chillers” and like to while the day away languishing about. You can often catch them hanging from branches with their mischievous faces peering out, with wispy white beards.

About 50% of their day is spent relaxing and with the remaining time they like to groom, greet, and play.

The Black & White Colobus monkey family at Belfast Zoo can be spotted in their home in the Monkey house.

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