Little Rock, Arkansas – The Little Rock Zoo has announced the arrival of a newborn male colobus monkey, a joyous addition to the zoo’s primate family just in time for International Primate Day celebrations this weekend. The baby, born July 29, is the offspring of Thumbelina and Azizi, two beloved members of the zoo’s colobus troop.
Zoo officials reported that both mother and infant are healthy and adjusting well to the new family dynamic. While the baby remains closely bonded with his mother, zookeepers anticipate that he will soon begin interacting and playing with his older siblings, a milestone eagerly awaited by staff and visitors alike.
“Both mother and baby are doing very well, and we are thrilled to welcome this new addition to our colobus family,” a zoo spokesperson said.
To help support the care and enrichment of the new arrival, the zoo has created an Amazon Wishlist featuring items specifically for the colobus family. Visitors and animal enthusiasts are encouraged to contribute, with donations helping to provide toys, climbing structures, and other enrichment items designed to stimulate the monkeys’ natural behaviors and keep them active and engaged.
The timing of the birth is particularly fitting, as the zoo will host special events on Saturday, Aug. 30, to celebrate International Primate Day. Guests attending the event will have the opportunity to learn more about the zoo’s primates, participate in educational activities, and meet the newest member of the colobus family up close.
“This birth is a wonderful way to highlight the importance of primates in the wild and at our zoo,” officials said. “We hope visitors will join us in celebrating International Primate Day while learning about the care and conservation of these amazing animals.”
With his arrival, the zoo’s colobus monkey group grows stronger and more dynamic, giving visitors a unique opportunity to observe the playful interactions and social behaviors that define this remarkable species. The Little Rock Zoo encourages families and animal lovers to come celebrate the newest addition and witness the early stages of what promises to be an exciting journey for the young monkey.
