There’s double the cuteness in our macaque reserve this spring! Two tiny new arrivals – Isaac and Iona – have joined the troop, and we’re already completely smitten.
Isaac was born on the 9th of April to mum Marie Teresa, and Iona arrived just over a week later, on Easter Sunday, born to mum Wuwu. And, in true Blair Drummond style, we let the mums help pick their babies’ names.
For Isaac, keepers created two colourful papier mâché eggs, each filled with a name and some tasty treats. Marie Teresa took her time, but after a bit of sniffing and some decisive egg smashing, she picked Isaac!
Wuwu’s turn came last week. We offered her two snack-filled boxes – one with a picture of Islay whisky, and the other with Iona Abbey. She headed straight for the abbey, and just like that, we had our Iona. All macaque babies born at the park this year will have names starting with the letter ‘I’, so these two are setting the trend.
Right now, both babies are sticking close to their mums, enjoying lots of cuddles as they settle into life in the macaque reserve. It won’t be long before they’re out and about, exploring the world and getting up to mischief.
Carolyn Booth, our Pets Farm Team Leader, shared her thoughts on these adorable newcomers: “Spring is always a lovely time at the park, and we’re thrilled to welcome two healthy new arrivals. The babies are still spending a lot of time with their mums right now, but it won’t be long before they start exploring the reserve. Watching the close bonds between mums and babies is really special.”
Barbary macaques are an endangered species, and we’re proud to be part of their conservation. Your support helps us protect these incredible animals and continue our efforts to raise awareness about their challenges in the wild. Come visit the new arrivals in the macaque reserve – though you may need to look closely, as they’re still very small!