TOPEKA (KSNT) – A local zoo is welcoming in two tiny babies this month born in the Capital City.
The Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center announced in a press release on June 24 that two golden lion tamarins were born to parents Esperta and Kris recently. Guests at the zoo may spot the tiny infants clinging on to their parents during their next visit.
“We are beyond excited!” said Wrylie Guffey, Animal Care Director. “The Topeka Zoo has been involved with AZA’s (Association of Zoo’s & Aquariums) Golden Lion Tamarin species survival program for many years, and we are pleased to celebrate this new birth. Watching older siblings learn to take care of new babies is truly something to behold. The practice they receive sets them up to be better parents someday. The babies will cling to the mother, father, or even the brother periodically. This gives mom Esperta a much-needed break, especially as they grow larger.”
(Photo Courtesy/Brea Schmidt)
(Photo Courtesy/Brea Schmidt)
(Photo Courtesy/Brea Schmidt)
(Photo Courtesy/Brea Schmidt)
(Photo Courtesy/Brea Schmidt)
(Photo Courtesy/Brea Schmidt)
(Photo Courtesy/Brea Schmidt)
Parking in downtown Topeka is about to get more expensive
People can find the golden lion tamarin habitat near the zoo’s rainforest dome. Zoo staff will continue to monitor the family to ensure the babies grow up in a healthy environment.
Golden lion tamarins are native to the rainforests of South America and are considered endangered with less than 3,200 remaining in the wild, according to the Rainforest Alliance. They mostly eat fruit and nectar with occasional insects in their diet and are notable for their golden-colored hair.
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