Golden Headed Lion Tamarins Born at Smithsonian

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: October 19, 2021 11:50 am

A pair of golden headed lion tamarins born on October 7th 2021 at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo cling to the back of their mother, Lola

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Keepers at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo found a surprise when they arrived for work on October 7th 2021, twin golden lion tamarins. The twins were born to first time parents, Lola (4) and Coco (7).

Lola and Coco were paired together by the  Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan (SSP). The SSP looks at the genetic makeup, health and temperament of each individual to determine their suitability for breeding.

Kenton Kerns, assistant curator of the Smithsonian National Zoo’s Small Mammal House, is the Studbook keeper for this species

Keepers at the small mammal house are monitoring the new family without interference to ensure they have time to bond. Lola has been observed carrying and nursing her infants. They appear to be healthy and strong. As she keeps them close to her chest it may be some time before their genders can be determined.

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Keepers at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo describe Lola as shy and reserved. Since she meet Coco in April though she has been coming out of her shell. Introductions between the pair went well and they bred soon after meeting.

To ensure she was healthy during the pregnancy Lola is trained to climb on to a scale so that her health can be monitored. Keepers were able to determine she was pregnant by noticing an increase in weight.

This is the first birth of a golden-headed lion tamarin at the zoo in 16 years. Over their history the zoo have welcomed 26 infants.

Golden-headed lion tamarins are found in the state of Baha in Brazil. Unfortunately deforestation has been impacting the survival of these precious primates. Land clearing occurs for cattle ranching and cocoa plantations. They are currently listed as endangered.

Visitors to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo can meet the new family at the Small Mammal House.

A pair of golden headed lion tamarins born on October 7th 2021 at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo cling to the back of their mother, Lola

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Learn more about Golden Headed Lion Tamarins here – Golden Headed Lion Tamarin Fact File | The Animal Facts

Learn more about the Smithsonian’s National Zoo on their website – Smithsonian’s National Zoo