AssetID: 55119858
Headline: RAW VIDEO: British Zoo celebrates birth of rare Coppery Titi Monkey after 94 years
Caption: Conservationists at Chester Zoo are celebrating a groundbreaking moment after the birth of a rare coppery titi monkey – the first of its kind to be born at the conservation charity in 94 years. During their early morning rounds, zookeepers were delighted to spot the tiny baby clinging to the back of its parents, Scout and Ned. The adorable arrival marks a significant milestone, as it’s the first coppery titi monkey ever born at the zoo. The proud parents arrived at Chester Zoo in March, as part of a crucial international conservation breeding programme dedicated to ensuring the survival of the species. Described as “the size of a golf ball,” the infant will grow to stand at around 30cm tall once fully developed, but for now, it remains tucked safely in its parents’ care. Native to South America, where they play a vital role in seed dispersal and maintaining the health of rainforests, coppery titi monkeys are under serious threat. The International Union for Nature (IUCN), the world’s foremost authority on the state of nature, highlights deforestation, hunting for bushmeat, and the illegal wildlife trade as major factors driving the species' decline. The new arrival will soon begin exploring on its own, and when it does, zookeepers will determine its sex and choose the perfect name for the little one. Holly Webb, Primate Keeper at Chester Zoo, shared her excitement: “It’s always a joy to welcome any new addition, but the birth of the very first coppery titi monkey here at Chester Zoo is an extra special moment. Right now, the baby is no bigger than a golf ball – but it’s bright-eyed, healthy, and already full of confidence, clinging tightly as mum and dad leap through the treetops. “One of the most fascinating things about titi monkeys is their parenting behaviour, with dads playing a really active role in raising their young. It’s dad Ned who is doing most of the carrying, while mum Scout steps in for nursing and to give Ned a well-earned rest. With the baby still so tiny and tucked firmly into its parents’ fur, it’ll be a few more weeks until it begins to explore on its own. Once it starts venturing out, we’ll be able to determine whether it’s male or female and then choose the perfect name for this precious new arrival. “Their strong co-parenting bond, alongside their incredible social lives and small stature, is what makes this species so incredibly fascinating. But they face an uncertain future in the wild, with increasing pressures from logging and the illegal pet trade. We’re hopeful though, that this family unit will grow over time and continue to play a vital role in the conservation breeding programme that’s safeguarding the species.” Coppery titi monkeys are easily recognisable by their striking red fur, bushy tails, and lifelong pair bonds. Known for their monogamous relationships, they also have loud vocalisations which they use at dawn to mark their territory.
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