Hi °C | Lo °C THESE tiny, critically-endangered monkeys are the latest addition to Belfast Zoo
THESE tiny, critically-endangered monkeys are the latest addition to Belfast Zoo.
Alex and Charlie, a pair of pied tamarins were born only recently.
The World Conservation Union (IUCN), has reclassified pied tamarins from endangered to critically endangered as they move a step closer to extinction.
They are being threatened by habitat loss in their native Brazil. Although not hunted for food, this species is a popular pet. That, combined with urban growth and cattle ranching on the outskirts of Manaus, the state capital of Amazonas, have all taken their toll.
Only seven zoos worldwide have pied tamarins in captivity. Of those in European zoos, the vast majority were originally bred in Jersey.
The twins are one of the many threatened species which Belfast Zoo is working hard to save.
