Three endangered macaques born at Trentham Monkey Forest
Three endangered Barbary macaque monkeys have been born at a monkey sanctuary in Stoke-on-Trent.
The new arrivals were born high up in the trees at the Trentham Monkey Forest and first spotted by head guide Anna Smith while out on her usual morning feeding round.
Anna said she was delighted to see the three tiny, pink-faced babies clinging tightly to their mums as they made their way down for a spot of breakfast.
Head Guide Anna Smith said: "Since 2005 our conservation work has supported the survival of this incredible species.
"Seeing the babies arrive never gets old. It's such a privilege to watch them grow up with their families in our woodland – and to one day become parents themselves.
"We usually expect between 6–10 births each year, and it's not just the mums doing the parenting.
"One of the most amazing things about Barbary macaques is how the males get involved too, they often help 'babysit' the newborns, a rare behaviour in the primate world."
There are fewer than 8,000 Barbary monkeys left in the wild, meaning every birth is a meaningful step in helping the endangered species thrive.
The 60-acre Trentham Monkey Forest is home to 140 Barbary macaques and the venue works with organisations protecting the species in the wild in Morocco and Algeria.
Pregnancies aren't confirmed in advance so park staff rely on observation to asses who might be pregnant, but they have to wait for nature to take its course for official confirmation.
Park director Matt Lovatt added, "We're so proud of the environment we've created here.
"The monkeys learn everything about being a Barbary macaque from the moment they're born, surrounded by their group, cared for, and completely free to roam.
"We're really looking forward to seeing more babies arrive in the coming weeks."
Trentham Monkey Forest hopes sharing the news of the birth will help raise awareness about the threats primates face across the globe.
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