Endangered monkey born at Whipsnade Zoo

An endangered baby monkey has been born at Whipsnade Zoo.

The François’ langur, native to China and North Vietnam, has been described as a little 'ray of sunshine'.

The endangered species of monkey is estimated to be down to almost 2,000 left in the wild, facing threats from illegal hunting for their meat and traditional medicines.

The baby was seen by zookeepers cradling her bright orange baby over the weekend, born in the early hours of Saturday February 17th.

The little monkey's sister, Nguyen has been sharing parenting responsibilities with mum Lulu and dad Wang, which is hoped to be a good sign for the future of the species.

The flame-coloured monkey was born as part of a European Endangered Species Breeding Programme (EEP) - an internationally coordinated conservation initiative which aims to boost the numbers of species that are threatened in the wild.

Whipsnade Zookeeper Amanda Robinson explained the baby's brightly coloured fur will soon fade: “It’s believed the babies are born with bright orange locks so that parents can easily spot the youngster when they’re being cared for by the troop.

“Over time this hair will fade to black. The bright orange hair certainly makes it easier for keepers and visitors to spot the new addition!”

Amanda added: “Sadly, in the wild the number of François’ langurs are plummeting, so this newborn really is a ray of sunshine and a sign of hope for the species.” she said.

"Nguyen has been staying close to her mum Lulu and giving her a break when she needs to eat or drink. She’s been treating the newborn like it’s her own baby, which is exactly what you’d see in the wild - it shows the eight-year-old has picked up great skills from the older members of the troop.”

François’ langurs are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of threatened species.