Cheeky Little Monkeys Find New Home at Newquay Zoo

Two monkeys on the critically endangered species list have found a new home at Newquay Zoo.

Brothers Pataxo, 8, and Tuxa, 7, are yellow-breasted capuchin monkeys.

Animal collections manager John Meek said: “They came from Edinburgh Zoo and their reputation preceded them as this pair are known for being quite a handful for keepers.

“This we could tell as soon as they were released into the enclosure at Newquay as they immediately explored and settled in straight away. They have great characters and we are delighted to have them here.

“I am sure they will prove very popular with visitors and staff.”

The species originates from the last two per cent of the endangered coastal Atlantic Rainforest of Brazil.

This highly fragmented rainforest habitat has been mostly deforested for farmland.

Another threat is trapping for the pet trade and for meat.

Hunting and habitat loss make them one of the world’s top 25 most endangered primates. Newquay Zoo takes part in European breeding of the species and supports conservation efforts in Brazil.

(c) 2008 Western Morning News, The Plymouth (UK). Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.