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Fota Wildlife Park is delighted to announce a momentous occasion—a baby endangered François Langur monkey has taken its first steps into the world on November 22nd. The infant, with its striking orange fur, was born to proud parents Mei and Shinobi.

In recent weeks, the young François Langur monkey has been making appearances alongside its parents in the Asian Sanctuary. Visitors can often catch glimpses of this captivating newcomer through the viewing window of their specially designed habitat. This particular species, Trachypithecus françoisi, is known for its striking orange fur, which starkly contrasts with the black fur of the adults in the group. Notably, the François Langur monkey is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Mei, the mother of the newborn, was born in 2016 and arrived at Fota Wildlife Park along with her younger sister Kaili in September 2022, as part of the European Endangered Breeding Programme (EEP). Joining them shortly afterward was Shinobi, born in 2016, who came from ZSL Whipsnade Zoo in the UK in December 2022.

Teresa Power, the Lead Ranger at Fota Wildlife Park, expressed hope that this new arrival would raise awareness about the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect the François Langur. She highlighted the concerning statistics, stating:

“There is a wild population of 1,400–1,650 in China and fewer than 500 left in Vietnam. As a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), we will be participating in their 2024 ‘Vietnamizing’ conservation campaign, drawing attention to threats to the country’s amazing biodiversity and animal species, such as the François Langur, whose wild populations are currently under pressure from habitat loss, hunting, and poaching.”

The dedicated animal care team at Fota Wildlife Park has been diligently working to integrate the trio of Mei, Kaili, and the adult male Shinobi into a breeding group. Their efforts have paid off, with the safe arrival of this endangered baby monkey, bringing joy and hope for the future of the species.

Aunt Kaili has taken on the role of babysitter, a phenomenon known as ‘allomothering,’ where females in the group assist in caring for and raising the young. The baby, full of curiosity, has already started imitating adult behaviors and keeps everyone entertained, especially during mealtimes.

Over the next few months, the baby’s coat is expected to transition from orange to black, mirroring the natural development of François Langur monkeys. The species is characterized by its medium size, sleek black coat, and distinctive white sideburns that extend from its ears to the corners of its cheeks.

In a bid to engage the community further, Fota Wildlife Park is inviting the public to suggest a name for the new baby François Langur monkey. By participating, you have the chance to win a Conservation Annual Pass. Submit your name suggestions via the Fota Website here: Name the Baby François Langur Monkey

Fota Wildlife Park, a conservation charity, is committed to several successful breeding and reintroduction programs for endangered species, including Scimitar horned oryx, European bison, and Natterjack toad. The arrival of this baby François Langur monkey marks another significant step towards the preservation of endangered wildlife.