The Fort Worth Zoo is thrilled to announce the recent birth of a baby mandrill, marking a significant milestone as the first mandrill born at the zoo since 1995. Born on January 11, 2024, the female monkey has been named Ruby, in honor of her mother, Scarlett. Ruby’s father is J.J.
Mom and Ruby are both in excellent health and have already developed a strong bond. As they explore their habitat, Ruby clings closely to her mother, seeking comfort and protection. Although she has not been officially measured or weighed yet, zookeepers estimate that Ruby weighs approximately two pounds, equivalent to the size of a pineapple.
Mandrill babies typically nurse for six to twelve months and continue to stay close to their mothers even after weaning. The Fort Worth Zoo is delighted to contribute to the conservation efforts of mandrills, as Ruby is only the third mandrill ever born at the zoo. The previous births include a female in 1992 and a male in 1995.
Mandrills are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). These remarkable primates are native to a limited number of countries in West-Central Africa, where their populations have been declining due to illegal and unregulated hunting, as well as habitat destruction.
The birth of Ruby represents a significant step forward in the conservation of mandrills, and the Fort Worth Zoo is dedicated to raising awareness about these endangered creatures and supporting their preservation in the wild.
