Breeding programme boost for endangered mangabeys

In a bid to boost a European breeding programme for endangered species, the Zoological Society London's (ZSL) London Zoo has welcomed two new female mangabey monkeys.

Ankasa and Achimoto – nicknamed Kasi and Mo – were born at Dublin Zoo and have been getting along well with the rest of the group since their move to London. In particular, with dominant male Lucky.

White-nape mangabeys are suffering a severe decline in the wild due to hunting and habitat loss, and have just been announced as one of the top 10 mammals most reliant on zoos by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (Biaza).

ZSL London Zoo's mangabey breeding programme is one of the most successful in Europe. It is helped by Lucky, who has unique genetics that have proved to be very important to the breeding group.

The introduction of Kasi and Mo is hoped to encourage successful breeding.

Andrea Dempsey, the zoo's mangabey keeper, said: "These two new females are a really exciting addition to our group, and we’re really keen that they breed with our male Lucky – they’re getting on so well that we’re feeling hopeful.

"Breeding these endangered animals at ZSL London Zoo is vital to safe-guarding a future for them."

Ms Dempsey added that zoos around the world are working together as part of an international breeding programme for mangabeys and are supporting projects with their expertise and fundraising.

Breeding programmes also teach visitors about specific species, their behaviours and biology, and how to help preserve a healthy population in a safe environment.

Image courtesy of ZSL