Woburn’s Tiniest New Arrival Needs a Tree-mendous Name!
By Animals Correspondent
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 newborn arrived in the early hours of 15th November, and keepers were delighted to find it already clinging tightly to Willow’s back.
Keepers first suspected Willow was expecting when Murphy suddenly became unusually attentive.
Soon after, Willow’s monthly weigh-ins showed a gentle increase, followed by a baby bump and finally, darkening of fur around her eyes, a usual sign of pregnancy in squirrel monkeys.
The birth is extra special, as Willow herself 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.
Senior Animal Keeper, James Fryer, said:
“It’s extraordinary to see Willow become a first-time mum. She gave birth in the early hours of 15th November, and we arrived to find her confidently caring for her newborn. 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.”
Why This Birth Matters
Squirrel monkeys are native to the rainforests of South America and face threats from deforestation and the illegal pet trade. While Guianan squirrel monkeys are not classified as endangered, wild populations show a downward trend in numbers. Breeding success at Woburn supports the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP), helping maintain healthy genetic diversity and safeguard the species for the future.
Did you know?
Squirrel monkeys are highly intelligent and social primates.
They live in large troops and communicate with over 25 different vocalisations.
Their diet includes fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.
Help Woburn Name This Tiny Newcomer!
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 today: www.woburnsafari.co.uk/monkey-competition/
