Chattanooga Zoo Welcomes New Baby Black Crested Mangabey — Help Name the Adorable New Arrival!
Photo Courtesy of Chattanooga Zoo
In The Know with Gino…
Exciting news from the Chattanooga Zoo! Suzy, the beloved black crested mangabey, recently gave birth to a healthy baby boy, and visitors are invited to help choose his name.
The tiny newcomer weighed just 0.8 kilograms (1.75 pounds) during his first weigh-in, but he’s already capturing hearts. Black crested mangabeys are native to the rainforests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Africa. Due to habitat loss from deforestation, this species is classified as vulnerable — only one step above endangered.
The Chattanooga Zoo is proud to be one of only 12 AZA-accredited zoos in the United States to house this rare primate species. Known for their distinctive tall tufts of hair atop their heads and wide cheek fur, black crested mangabeys have a somewhat Grinch-like appearance. But despite their quirky looks, these primates are incredibly nurturing.
Little “mangababy” is already showing his affectionate side, clinging to his mother Suzy as she cares for him. Meanwhile, father Sam keeps a watchful eye nearby, ensuring his family remains safe.
Zoo visitors can see the adorable trio in the Gombe Forest section inside the Donovan Interpretive Center. And now, the zoo is asking the community to participate in naming the new arrival. Fans can cast their votes for one of three options: Simon, Sebastian, or Sullivan (Sully for short).
To help decide the perfect name, click HERE and cast your vote today!
Go meet the newest member of the Chattanooga Zoo family and witness the tender moments of primate parenthood firsthand.
SOURCE: NOOGAtoday
