The population of the Buffalo Zoo’s M&T Bank Rainforest Falls has grown with the birth of a black howler monkey, which entered the world on April 20. Born to first-time mom Rio (7) and first-time dad Tater (8), the infant, which does not yet have a name or confirmed gender, is doing incredibly well in their care.
“Our black howler monkey baby is not just an exciting addition to our Zoo, but an important step forward in supporting the conservation of this species,” said Buffalo Zoo President and CEO Lisa Smith. “The birth is a testament to the incredible work and care of our Buffalo Zoo team, and we cannot wait for our community to meet this adorable new face.”
Black howler monkey mothers are known to provide incredibly attentive care for their infants, and Rio has been no different. Zoo staff has observed the baby constantly with mom, and Rio has done an excellent job caring for and feeding the infant.
Visitors swinging by M&T Bank Rainforest Falls hoping to catch a glimpse of the baby should keep a close eye on Rio, as the infant is likely clinging to her belly. The baby will be on exhibit daily with mom and dad until around noon in the near future.
Black howler monkeys are currently listed as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), making this birth an incredibly positive development to ensure the survival of the species. Population declines for black howler monkeys are largely due to habitat loss, hunting pressures, and vulnerability to disease outbreaks.
Native to the rainforests of South America, black howler monkeys are among the largest monkey species on the continent. They are recognized for their well-known “howl,” a powerful, loud vocalization that can be heard from over a mile away.
The Buffalo Zoo is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last admission at 4 p.m. General admission tickets can be purchased in advance online at buffalozoo.org, or in-person at the front entrance gate.
