Woburn Safari Park is celebrating a heart-warming new arrival, a tiny Guianan squirrel monkey baby, born to first-time mum Willow and dad Murphy.
The cute newborn arrived in the early hours of November 15 and keepers were delighted to find it already clinging tightly to Willow’s back.
The birth is extra special, as Willow was born at Woburn and raised by her mum, Tye, the troop’s matriarch.
Seeing her become a mum now is a proud, full-circle moment for the keeper team. Dad Murphy, who joined the troop in 2024 as the new breeding male, shares Willow’s calm nature, making this peaceful pairing a perfect match.
“It’s extraordinary to see Willow become a first-time mum,” said Senior Animal Keeper, James Fryer, “This is a brilliant achievement for the EEP (European Endangered Species Programme) breeding programme, especially following Murphy’s introduction last year as the troop’s new breeding male.”
Squirrel monkeys are native to the rainforests of South America and face threats from deforestation and the illegal pet trade. While not classified as endangered, wild populations show a downward trend in numbers.
To celebrate the Park’s newest arrival, visitors are invited to help name the baby squirrel monkey. Keeping with mum Willow’s nature-themed name, entries should be inspired by trees, plants or flowers.
Participants will be entered into a prize draw to win a family day ticket to Woburn Safari Park, and the keepers will select the winning name for the newest troop member.
Visitors can spot the little one in Monkey Mayhem, clinging on to Willow’s back, a perfect photo opportunity for families!
Cast your vote here: www.woburnsafari.co.uk/monkey-competition/
