More primates at Vandalur zoo

The additions include a squirrel monkey, a red-handed tamarin and a tufted capuchin monkey

TAMBARAM:02/11/2018: Vandalur zoo authorities received a pair of Tufted Capuchin monkey as part
 of animal exchange programme from Mysuru zoo. One male from each species of
 Squirrel monkey and Red handed Tamarin was received from the local sources.
 Photo: Special Arrangement

Now visitors to the Arignar Anna Zoological Park have more primates to clap their eyes on. The zoo already has many primate species such as chimpanzee and savannah baboon. Now, the zoo has received a pair of tufted capuchin monkeys from the Mysuru zoo, as part of animal-exchange programme. The initiative was aimed at enriching the collection of exotic animals. A squirrel monkey and a red-handed tamarin, both male, were received from elsewhere.

“After thorough screening at the Zoo Veterinary Hospital, these animals are now kept for public display to attract visitors, especially children,” says a zoo official. A long tail is an attractive feature of the squirrel monkey. Red tamarin is unique for its red limbs in a black body and tufted capuchin is known for its playfulness.