Adelaide Zoo is a buzz with excitement as we welcome a bouncing baby Hamadryas Baboon to our wild family.
Born in the early hours of Thursday, 27 October, the six-day-old infant is the second offspring born to parents Chappi and Horus.
Adelaide Zoo Primate Keeper Pij Olijnyk said the youngster was thriving under the care of devoted mum Chappi and appeared strong and healthy.
“The baby is suckling well and clinging tightly to mum. Both Chappi and Horus are doing a wonderful job looking after their newest family member,” Pij said.
“The little one is already keeping mum busy, as it becomes aware of its surroundings.”
The new arrival has come as a bit of a surprise to the baboon troop’s youngest and cheekiest member, Tomkay, who will celebrate his second birthday in December.
“Tomkay has been particularly curious of his new sibling, trying to sneak a cuddle,” Pij said.
“Chappi is an incredible mum and has been very protective of her new baby, only allowing Tomkay to have a look.
“Once the baby becomes old enough, Tomkay will be over the moon to have a new playmate.”
The sex of the baby is yet to be confirmed.
Hamadryas Baboons are one of five species of baboon found in harsh dry environments in Africa. Wild populations are under pressure with their habitat being converted into farmland.
Baboons live in multi-level societies in the wild and live with as many as 800 baboons in one area. An adult male dominates his harem with up to 10 females.
The new addition is on public display with the rest of the harem, with zoo keepers monitoring them closely.
It’s an exciting time at Adelaide Zoo, with the arrival of a gorgeous Golden-lion Tamarin baby last month, and a baby White-cheeked Gibbon due in the next month.
