The Golden Children Tamarin Trio Born at Adelaide Zoo

The Golden Children. Tamarin Trio Born at Adelaide Zoo

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: January 8, 2021 10:10 pm

A gentoo penguin chick during a daily check at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Photo Credit: Zoos SA

Golden lion tamarins, Arella and Roscoe at Adelaide Zoo in Australia have become parents. They welcomed triplets on December 4th 2020, a rare event for this species. Golden lion tamarins typically give birth to twins.

“Back in November our veterinary team carried out a health check on mum Arella, 6 as we suspected she was pregnant, and were delighted and surprised to discover that she was expecting triplets with only a few week to go,” said Senior Primate Keeper, Jodie Sheridan.

“A Golden Lion Tamarin having three babies is rare as they more commonly have twins.

A gentoo penguin chick with its parent at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium

Photo Credit: Zoos SA

Golden lion tamarins are listed as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature as endangered making the arrivals extra special.

Found in Brazil, these monkeys have a unique family set-up. Males and siblings take an active role in helping to care for the infants. The help is likely welcomed by mom. As they approach four weeks old they chicks are already starting to become independent and can be seen exploring their home.

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“Mum Arella, Dad Roscoe, 6 and the entire family have taken turns looking after the young. The babies, now four weeks old, are all doing really well.

“Visitors to Adelaide Zoo will see the triplets at the Golden Lion Tamarin exhibit. Look closely and you will see them attached to the back of an adult, which could be a parent or sibling.

“As they are so small and blend into the fur they can be difficult to see but please ask a keeper or a member of staff for help identifying them,” finished Jodie.

Golden lion tamarins are threatened by the building of infrastructure and land clearing for housing development and the building of farms. As few as 1,400 remain in the wild.