Drusillas Zoo Park in East Sussex is buzzing with excitement as they welcome a tiny new member to their family, Rosie, an adult female pygmy marmoset, the world’s smallest monkey species. Weighing just 108 grams, Rosie arrived from Shepreth Wildlife Park on January 30th, joining the resident male pygmy marmoset, Ben, in what the zoo hopes will be a successful pairing leading to offspring.
The zoo, which hasn’t seen the birth of pygmy marmosets for over a decade, is optimistic about the future. Zoo Animal Manager, Mark Kenward, shared his enthusiasm about the new arrival, noting the immediate bond between Rosie and Ben, highlighted by mutual grooming and constant companionship, signaling a promising start to their relationship.
Rosie’s confident and curious nature is already making a positive impact, encouraging Ben, who is typically shy, to be more outgoing. This behavioral change is a delightful development for the zookeepers, who are keenly observing the pair’s interactions.
Pygmy marmosets, native to South America’s rainforests, are classified as vulnerable due to habitat destruction and the exotic pet trade. Drusillas Zoo is committed to conservation, participating in breeding programs to prevent the extinction of these tiny primates, often referred to as ‘finger monkeys’ due to their diminutive size.
The zoo is hopeful that Rosie and Ben’s bond will lead to the pitter-patter of tiny feet, marking a significant contribution to the conservation of their species. Visitors to Drusillas can see this charming duo, along with their habitat mates, sloths Flash and Gordon, and red-footed tortoises Porthos, Eagle, and Dartanian, in a unique mixed-species exhibit.
Drusillas continues to play a vital role in the preservation of endangered species, offering a safe haven for these animals while educating the public about the importance of wildlife conservation.
