Pygmy marmosets, native to South America, are a vulnerable species, making this birth an even more significant event. When fully grown, these mini monkeys only reach a height of 12-15cm and a weight of 100g. Newborns are roughly the size of a human thumb, making them one of the smallest mammal species on the planet.
The birth of this pygmy marmoset is the first of its kind at Drusillas Park in over a decade. Mother Rosie, who arrived at the zoo in January, was paired with resident male, Ben, in the hope of successful breeding efforts. The arrival of this tiny bundle of joy is a testament to their success.
The park is now reaching out to its followers on social media to suggest a name for the mini monkey. It's a wonderful opportunity for the local community to engage with the park and its conservation efforts.
Zoo manager Mark Kenward shared his delight, saying, "It’s wonderful news to announce. We’re always particularly proud when we welcome the birth of a species at risk of extinction, and it’s a privilege to play our part in conservation.”
This joyous event is not just a celebration of new life, but also a reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation. It's a small victory for the Sussex community, proving that every little helps in the fight to protect our planet's precious biodiversity.
