Here’s to a fluffy feel-good Friday! What better way to brighten your day than with an adorable video of Adelaide Zoo’s critically-endangered Cotton-top Tamarin twins.
The inquisitive little ones have started to explore off of mum Peppa and dad Gomez’ back, jumping and playing around their exhibit and through the overhead tamarin tunnels.
Senior Primate Keeper Pij Olijnyk said the pair recently had their first mealworm snack and close interaction with keepers.
“The little Cotton-top Tamarin duo are growing up! They have started to explore the tunnels and exhibit on their own – but Peppa and Gomez definitely keep a close eye on them,” he said.
“They are very inquisitive and enjoy playing together. This week they had their first mealworms, which were given to them by their keepers.
“From the way they were munching on them, we think they might be a new favourite!”
Now two months old, the playful pair are visible overhead in the tunnels that run from the Tamarin House and around the Central Lawn area.
Adelaide Zoo will run a naming competition for the dynamic duo in the coming weeks. Please keep an eye on our social media pages for more information.
Cotton-top Tamarins are very easy to recognise with a large white crest of hair, which will stand on end when alarmed or excited to make their appearance look bigger and more impressive.
Found in the lowland forests of Colombia, Cotton-top Tamarin numbers are declining due to habitat loss and hunting for the illegal pet trade.
Visitors will also have a chance to spot the little Cotton-top duo after hours during Adelaide Zoo’s summer sundown sessions, Zoo Nights. Make the most of balmy evenings and head along to the zoo after hours to explore the jungle-like gardens by twilight.
Zoo Nights opened last night and will be running on 6, 13 and 20 January.
For further information about Zoo Nights or to learn more about Cotton-top Tamarins, please visit adelaidezoo.com.au.
