Zoo Atlanta Welcome Angolan Colobus Infant

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: February 19, 2021 6:59 pm

The Angolan colobus infant clings to an adult at Zoo Atlanta

Photo Credit: Zoo Atlanta

The Angolan colobus troop has grown again at Zoo Atlanta in the US with their newest arrival born on February 6th 2021. Mother Adanna and father George welcomed the infant in to the troop which now numbers 10 individuals. This is the sixth infant born at the zoo.

Visitors to Zoo Atlanta can meet the colobus infant at the zoo’s Monkeys of Makokou habitat. It is easily distinguished by from the adults as it is all white in coloration. This contrasts with the black coats of the adults which the youngster will transition to over the coming months.

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Guests can see the infant with mother Adanna or in the care of other members in the troop. This is standard for colobus monkeys where the whole group pitch in to care for infants.

At Zoo Atlanta the troop of ten includes this infant its parents, grandmother Lami, adult female Kinshasa and the siblings and half-siblings of the new arrival; Gerri, Kito, Orlando, Zera, and Zuli.

“We’re thrilled to welcome a new member to our colobus group. This is a very dynamic group that offers visitors an excellent opportunity to observe natural social interactions and infant care,” said Jennifer Mickelberg, PhD, Vice President of Collections and Conservation.

The Angolan colobus infant clings to an adult at Zoo Atlanta

Photo Credit: Zoo Atlanta

“This species also has a very important educational message about the many threats facing African wildlife,” added Mickelberg.

Angolan colobus can be seen found in the forests, savannas and swamplands of middle Africa. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) class them as vulnerable. They are threatened by hunting for bushmeat and their skin.