Monkeys have arrived!

Monkeys are here!
It’s official! Bundaberg Zoo is now the new home to three female cotton-top tamarin monkeys! The revitalization of Alexandra Park Zoo has taken a massive leap forward with the introduction of three pint-sized primates.
Health and Regulatory Services portfolio spokesperson Cr Wayne Honor said Council was thrilled to acquire the female cotton-top tamarins which were a critically endangered species.
As Council is a member of the Australasian Species Management Program for cotton-top tamarins within the Zoo and Aquarium Association, we were able to acquire these monkeys from Perth Zoo,” Cr Honor said.
The enclosure is open to the public from 8.30am on Saturday, 25 May. Alexandra Park Zoo is located on Quay Street, Bundaberg.
“The program was looking for facilities to take on cotton-top tamarins that were not suitable for breeding or that had been part of a breeding program but had now reached an age that is deemed unsafe to continue.
“By Alexandra Park Zoo taking these monkeys, it allows for better genetic outcomes in this international breeding program, allowing other facilities the opportunity to breed this critically endangered species.”
He said the new purpose-built enclosure, which had received the tick of approval from Biosecurity Queensland, could comfortably house a maximum of six tamarins.
“It is good to have the option to introduce new monkeys to the zoo in the future however at the moment we are focused on ensuring these three females transition to their new surroundings with as little stress as possible.”
He said he had no doubt that the monkeys would become a star attraction at the zoo, which was already popular with local families.
“They are known as cotton-top tamarins because of their shock of white hair and I’m sure their antics will be enjoyed by young and old.”
However, Cr Honor said the tamarins are not the first monkeys introduced to the zoo.
“In the 1950s and 60s, Alexandra Park Zoo was better known as the Monkey Park due to our monkey display. For a number of residents, the arrival of the cotton-top tamarins will be a trip down memory lane.”
Cr Honor thanked all of the staff involved in getting the cotton-top tamarins settled at the zoo.
“The custom-built exhibit that houses the monkeys is very impressive and I know this outcome was not achieved without a considerable amount of time and effort from staff.”