SAN DIEGO, Calif. (KGTV) — The San Diego Zoo welcomes a newborn De Brazza's monkey, marking the first birth of this species at the zoo in 26 years.
The baby was born on Oct. 28 to parents Lillie and Augustus, the zoo said in a press release Wednesday. The little creature, whose gender is yet to be determined, can be seen clinging tightly to its mother's chest, forging a strong bond in these early days.
Over the next few weeks, the infant is expected to take its first steps and begin the adventure of climbing. It will remain in close proximity to its mother until it reaches approximately 1 year old, when the weaning process typically occurs, according to the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.
De Brazza’s monkeys, native to central Africa, like to find homes in trees and occupy forested regions near rivers and waterways. With distinctive white facial hair that resembles a beard, these primates are known for their appearance.
Visitors at the San Diego Zoo can see De Brazza's monkeys, including the newborn, at their Lost Forest habitat.
Additionally, the zoo will begin its holiday festivities on Dec. 8 with extended hours until 8 p.m.