Belfast Zoo delighted by progress of crowned sifaka baby

Belfast Zoo has said it is delighted with the progress of its baby crowned sifaka, especially given the fragility of the species.

Crowned sifakas are a species of lemur native to Madagascar, the island is one of the most threatened ecosystems on the planet with more than 80% of its forest habitat having disappeared since the 1950s.

The threat of extinction is also looming over crowned sifakas, with populations have decreased by more than 50% in the last 50 years.

It is estimated there are only around 20 of the animals living in zoos around the world, and Belfast Zoo is home to one of the only breeding pairs in Europe - making their little arrival extra special.

The baby boy was actually born at the end of March, but spent the first few months holding onto his mum Linoa’s stomach – making it impossible for keepers to determine the sex.

However, staff have visitors have finally been able to get a good look at the bright-eyed baby since he became big enough for his mum to now carry him on her back.

Delighted keepers have named him Latif.

Belfast Zoo first became home to crowned sifaka in 2004 and their male Andry was then joined by female Linoa in 2007.

In 2008, they welcomed the first baby to be born to the species in the UK and Ireland.

Sadly, Andry passed away due to old age and the zoo has since welcomed Tilavo – who is dad to the latest arrival.

Zoo curator Julie Mansell said: “The animals of Madagascar are facing increasing threats and the fragility of the future of the crowned sifaka is also highlighted by the fact that the infant mortality rate for the species is 80%.

“Caring for one of the few breeding pairs in Europe, we have a vital and active role to play in the conservation of the species.”

She added: “The first few months are always an anxious time and, although we know that the statistics are against us, we are delighted with Latif’s progress to date.”