Williamson Park welcomes two new furry friends

Williamson Park is excited to welcome two common marmosets to its small animal zoo family.

Colin (aged 5 years) and Leo (aged 4 years) join the park from Monkey World in Dorset, a collection that specialises in caring for primates rescued from the pet trade. 

Monkey World assists governments around the world to stop the smuggling of primates from the wild and rehabilitates refugees of this illegal trade, as well as those that have suffered abuse or neglect.

Common marmosets are members of the Callitrichidae monkey family and are native to Brazil in South America, mainly feeding on insects and plant sap and gum.

You can meet the latest members of the Williamson Park clan with entry to the Butterfly House, Mini Beast Cave and Small Animal Zoo, available from the gift shop. 

Beth Nortley, manager of Williamson Park, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Colin and Leo to their new home in Williamson Park.

“Marmoset monkeys are unfortunately the most commonly kept and traded species of primate as pets. 

“They have very specific needs and are sold to people without any knowledge of caring for monkeys, which inevitably leads to their owners being cruel through simple ignorance.

“We’re excited to be able to offer them a new home here in Williamson Park and provide them with the care they deserve.”

For more information visit the Williamson Park pages or follow the park on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Last updated: 15 February 2018