Whipsnade Zoo has launched a naming competition for first François’ langur born in Monkey Forest.
The flame-coloured baby monkey was born at the conservation zoo’s brand-new Monkey Forest habitat, which opened on 29 March, and zookeepers are inviting the public to help name the little one. The bright new addition was born to mum Lulu and dad Wang on 17 February, and keepers have been able to confirm that the new arrival is a boy.
Monkey Forest promises to transport visitors to the forests of southeast Asia, while shining a light on the endangered François’ langur troop.
Whipsnade Zoo’s Animal Operations Manager, Hayley Jakeman said, “The tiny four-week-old really stands out from the crowd at Monkey Forest. While his parents and the rest of the troop have monochromatic coats, the baby langur was born with shocking orange hair.
“We’re looking for a name which really encapsulates how important this little monkey is. François’ langurs are sadly endangered, and in China and Vietnam their numbers continue to plummet as the species faces threats from illegal hunting for their meat and for traditional medicinal purposes. It really makes this birth internationally important.”
Zookeepers will cast the final vote and choose a name from those submitted by the public. The person who suggests the winning name will be invited to Whipsnade Zoo for an exclusive guided visit to Monkey Forest for them and their family.
Click here to enter the naming competition.
