Goeldi’s Monkeys have returned to West Berkshire’s The Living Rainforest – and the local MP was amongst their first visitors.
Goeldi’s monkeys have returned to West Berkshire’s The Living Rainforest in Hampstead Norreys — and local MP Olivia Bailey was among the first visitors.
“I’m so excited to see the return of Goeldi’s monkeys to The Living Rainforest in Hampstead Norreys!” wrote Olivia Bailey, MP for Reading West and Mid Berkshire.
“One of the new arrivals is the great-granddaughter of Sooty and Meeko, who arrived at The Living Rainforest back in 1997 – continuing the strong West Berkshire legacy of protecting this beautiful species.
“I am proud to support them as they continue to promote wildlife conservation and host school groups from across the country.”
The Living Rainforest has a long history with the species, dating back to 1997 when staff cared for a pair named Sooty and Meeko. They went on to have nine sons, five of which started new family groups at other UK zoos. Sooty lived at The Living Rainforest until she was 28½ years old and was the UK’s oldest Goeldi’s monkey and the second oldest in captivity worldwide.
“Our new arrivals are Penelope (age four) and Isabella (age five).
“Penelope is the great-granddaughter of Sooty and Meeko.
“The new monkeys are expected to be introduced into our rainforest glasshouses in January,” they explaned.
“The return of the Goeldi’s monkeys has given a boost to the battle to save this threatened species.
“Goeldi’s monkeys are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, with habitat loss posing the greatest threat to their survival.
“Our work with this species has always been an important part of supporting their future.”
The Living Rainforest is also ramping up conservation efforts, including a new partnership with the University of Reading’s School of Biological Sciences.
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
