Tiny Twins Born at Newquay Zoo Offer New Hope for Critically Endangered Species

Two tiny new arrivals at Newquay Zoo are bringing big hope for the future of their species. Twin cotton-top tamarins, one of the world’s most endangered primates, were born on 3rd April 2025 to first-time parents Febe and Santiago.

Adorable Additions Already Capturing Hearts

The twins, each weighing about the same as a chicken egg at birth, are already turning heads as they cling tightly to their parents. Febe, aged 2, and Santiago, aged 3, are sharing parenting duties naturally, with each often seen carrying one of the babies as they care for them around the clock.

Cotton-top tamarins are known for their cooperative care in the wild, where members of tightly bonded groups help raise the young. This shared caregiving plays a crucial role in the survival of infants, with much of the maternal behaviour learned through experience and observation.

Critically Endangered in the Wild

Native to the tropical forests of northwest Colombia, cotton-top tamarins face severe threats. Over 80% of their natural habitat has been lost to deforestation, and the illegal wildlife trade continues to put pressure on their survival. Fewer than 2,000 individuals are believed to remain in the wild, earning them a spot on the IUCN Red List as critically endangered.

Breeding successes in zoos like Newquay Zoo are vital for the long-term survival of the species. As part of the Wild Planet Trust, Newquay Zoo plays an important role in international breeding programmes aimed at protecting endangered species.

Senior Animal Keeper Emma Sweetland shared her excitement about the new arrivals:

“It’s incredibly special to see Febe and Santiago co-parenting so naturally. Their attentiveness is heartwarming, and these births are a significant milestone for the conservation of this critically endangered species. These twins are not just adorable additions to our zoo family; they represent a vital step forward in the fight against species extinction.”

See Them While They’re Still Small

At just four weeks old, the twins are still clinging tightly to their parents but are expected to grow bolder in the coming weeks. Visitors may be lucky enough to spot them exploring their island enclosure as they start to venture further afield.

Cotton-top tamarins, named for the fluffy crown of white hair that stands on end when excited, are just one of three tamarin species at Newquay Zoo. The zoo is also home to golden lion tamarins, which are recovering thanks to breeding programmes, and pied tamarins, which also face critical threats in the wild.

Plan Your Visit

A visit to Newquay Zoo not only offers a chance to see these rare twins but also supports vital conservation work. The zoo is open daily from 10am, with closing times varying seasonally. Current closing time is 5.00pm, with last admissions at 4.00pm.

Admission prices:

• Adults: £19.00
• Children (3-15): £14.25
• Children (1-3): £2.75
• Children under 12 months: Free
• Carers accompanying a paying guest: Free
• Group rates: From £9.75 per person

Parking is available in the Cornwall Council carpark adjacent to Newquay Zoo, and the site offers full accessibility along with refreshments and retail facilities.

Visitors can book tickets online and Gift Aid declarations help provide extra funding at no cost to guests.