Miniature monkey from Tropical World Leeds chosen to help save endangered species

One of Tropical World’s pygmy marmosets was matched with a female through a breeding programme.

The pygmy marmoset is the world’s smallest type of monkey, weighing just over 100g.

It is unfortunately an endangered species, despite how incredibly adorable they are.

But in brilliant news, the male pygmy from Tropical World over in Roundhay was recently selected by the European Endangered Species Programme as a match for the female and moved into a nearby enclosure.

The miniature monkeys are now living together and keepers are hopeful there will soon be mini marmosets on the way.

The European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) helps zoos work together to protect threatened species by creating genetically healthy, stable populations that could one day be reintroduced into the wild.

Every match and transfer is carefully coordinated to give the animals the best chance to breed.

Tropical World has hosted five male pygmy marmosets since 2023, supporting the EEP by caring for them until they are required for breeding purposes.

It is also home to giant tortoises, meerkats and emperor tamarin monkeys, and received an official accreditation by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums earlier this year recognising its incredible work in animal welfare.

Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, said: “Tropical World works to protect vulnerable species and habitats, both locally and across the world.

“The conservation work the staff do is so important, and we look forward to hearing the results of the breeding programme.”

Find out more about the wonderful Tropical World here.

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Featured image – Supplied