Three rare-to-find endangered macaques born at Trentham monkey forest in Staffordshire
According to a BBC report, a trio of Barbary macaques which is an endangered primate species with fewer than 8,000 left in the wild has been born at Trentham Monkey Forest in Staffordshire.
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The staff has described the arrival as a joyful surprise that was discovered early in the morning by head guide Anna Smith during feeding rounds. The infants were born overnight and were nestled high in the treetops. Smith called the experience of finding newborns "wonderful," adding that watching them grow is an "absolute privilege" for the team. The wide-eyed newborns are part of the dwindling global population of only 8,000 Barbary macaques that is a species currently classified as endangered.
New Barbary macaque births boost hopes for endangered species
The 60-acre sanctuary, which houses 140 Barbary macaques, had anticipated the births for several months. The sanctuary said newborn Barbary macaques have soft pink faces and black fur and are typically seen holding tightly to their mothers for warmth and reassurance during their first hours of life. Their births are considered a significant milestone for conservationists working to increase the Barbary macaque population.
Expert views on the birth of endangered macaques
Park Director Matt Lovatt explained that the sanctuary is now entering its "baby season" with six to ten births typically expected each year. He noted that the newborns will be cared for by their wider group and will begin learning the unique behaviors of Barbary macaques from day one. "We're excited to see which little one will be next," he added, "as we anticipate more arrivals in the near future."
Trentham monkey forest efforts
Trentham Monkey Forest partners with organizations dedicated to safeguarding wild Barbary macaques in Morocco and Algeria.
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The sanctuary said its mission includes raising awareness about the species' endangered status.
Barbary macaques adorable images captured
Charming images capture three endangered baby Barbary macaques snuggling close to their mothers after being born high in the treetops at a UK monkey sanctuary. These adorable African primates are believed to be just a few days old when they were born at Trentham Monkey Forest in Staffordshire which is the largest primate habitat in the UK.
Source: BBC
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