Potter Park Zoo announces birth of critically endangered species

[catbyte]

The new additions were born on Oct. 2.



LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - Tuesday Potter Park Zoo announced that cotton-top tamarin parents LF and Yuri welcomed two offspring. The birth is significant for the endangered species and is the third successful birth for the parents at the zoo.

The pair were born on Oct. 2 and join a pair born in October 2018 and a second pair in June 2019. All eight tamarins are living in a family group. Older siblings help take care of the younger ones by alloparenting, which helps younger tamarins develop skills to raise their own offspring while relieving stress on the parents.

Zoo staff say the two babies are actively nursing and exploring their environment and will become independent at around 5 months.

The zoo was recommended to breed the pair by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan. Across the country, there are 60 accredited AZA zoos with a total of 200 cotton-top tamarins.

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https://www.wilx.com/2020/11/10/potter-park-zoo-announces-birth-of-critically-endangered-species/

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I'm generally not a fan of zoos, but if they can help a species in danger of extinction to survive, I'm for it. It's our fault.

[Coventina]

1. Have you watched Animal Planet's "The Zoo"?

It's a great show about the important mission reputable zoos have.

I'm a huge fan.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

2. I love "The Zoo."

The good zoos play an indispensable role in saving endangered animals, and they have careful breeding programs to keep their animals healthy and not inbred.

[Coventina]

3. I'm a Zoo superfan. I've watched every episode so many times I practically have them memorized.

This past season was really emotionally tough.
Max.
And that male tiger that went into cardiac arrest.


I don't know if I can watch those episodes again.

But the one with the baby bunnies? I watch that one whenever I need a virtual hug.