Titi Monkey Press Materials

Lincoln Park Zoo Celebrates Newborn Titi Monkey!

Chicago (Oct. 20, 2011) - Lincoln Park Zoo is proud to welcome a rare newborn Bolivian gray titi monkey to the zoo family. The baby was born Monday, October 17, and is one of only approximately 50 individuals of this species in accredited zoos.

The new arrival, which has yet to be sexed or named, is the eighth offspring for mother Delasol (pronounced De-luh-soul) and father Ocala (pronounced Oh-cah-luh). Mom and baby both appear to be doing well.

“We are delighted,” said Curator of Primates Maureen Leahy. “Delasol is the oldest Bolivian gray titi monkey on record to have given birth, and the newborn’s father and older siblings are already pitching in.”

Titi (pronounced tee-tee) monkeys are unique in that they mate for life and share the responsibilities of parenthood with the whole family. Within a few days of birth, babies will primarily be carried by their father, who circles them back to mom for nursing. Siblings will also take shifts holding the youngster.

They are very social animals known for sitting close to each other and intertwining their tails together while perched on branches, both when they are awake and asleep.

The species, which is native to South American tropical forests, is characterized by thick, fluffy fur ranging in color from gray to orangey-brown and white ear tufts. Titi monkeys primarily eat fruit and leaves but also enjoy the occasional insect.

Titi monkeys face challenges due to habitat loss in their native area and the illegal pet trade. Lincoln Park Zoo works with accredited zoos worldwide to maintain the species and is proud to be home to one of the most successful breeding pairs in captivity. The family is currently on exhibit at the Helen Brach Primate House.

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ABOUT LINCOLN PARK ZOO

Lincoln Park Zoo, a historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, is dedicated to connecting people with nature by providing a free, family-oriented wildlife experience. A leader in conservation science both globally and locally, the zoo exemplifies the highest quality animal care and educational outreach. The not-for-profit zoo, managed by The Lincoln Park Zoological Society, is a member-supported organization and one of the nation’s only free, privately managed zoos. For more information, call 312 -742-2000 or visit www.lpzoo.org.

Click a thumbnail below for high resolution jpg.
All photos should be credited to Anita Yantz, Lincoln Park Zoo.