February 14, 2024 11:00 a.m. 

Wildlife Safari has announced the birth of two Cotton Top Tamarin babies.

A Safari release said it occurred on January 25th in the game park’s village. The parents are Bey and Colonel Mustard.

Public Relations Manager Taylor Holeman said the birth is a significant event for the conservation of these primates. Holeman said Cotton Top Tamarins are listed as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List with a decreasing population, making the arrival of these babies a beacon of hope for the species. Holeman said Wildlife Safari remains committed to the preservation and protection of endangered species and this successful birth is a testament to their dedication to wildlife conservation. The babies sexes are currently unknown, but will be determined when they are around 9 weeks old once they are big enough to visually see.

Guests to the village can see mom carrying the twins on her back around the exhibit while dad keeps a watchful eye.

Lead Village Keeper Zoe Notenboom said, “One of our babies is very curious and outgoing, and always looking around when we go in to care for them. The other baby is more shy and very attached to mom, and can be seen staying nearest to her head. They are growing really fast and should start exploring on their own in the next couple weeks. We are excited to watch their personalities continue to grow.

Holeman said to involve the public in this celebration, Wildlife Safari is inviting guests to participate in naming the Tamarin babies. Keepers have carefully selected naming options, and the public can cast their votes in a poll. The keepers have decided to honor the native location of the Cotton Top Tamarin by choosing traditional Colombian names. Participants will be able to choose between 4 paired options by going to: www.wildlifesafari.net or checking the park’s social media posts.