The Fort Worth Zoo
The Fort Worth Zoo just announced a new addition to its roster of primates, with the birth of its second baby mandrill of 2024 – Jasper. Born on Sept. 13, Jasper is the second child of mother, Scarlett, and father, J.J. Baby Jasper joins his older sister Scarlett, who was born on Jan. 11 and marks the first baby mandrill born at the Fort Worth Zoo since 1995. Jasper’s birth marks only the fourth mandrill born at the zoo ever.
“After nearly three decades without a mandrill birth, the Zoo is thrilled to have back-to-back baby monkeys that represent a conservation success,” a release states.
Jasper weighed in at almost 2 pounds exactly, and was given a name that honored both his mother Scarlett, and sister Ruby, with the “J” representing his father J.J.
Zoo officials say both mom and baby Jasper have developed a strong bond, given the rest of the mandrill troop gave them their space.
For now, this family of four are living together inside of the World of Primates habitat, as Jasper learns his way around. Mandrill babies usually nurse between six to 12 months. During this time, the baby mandrills stay close to their mothers, however, zoo officials say Jasper is already exploring his surroundings, away from Scarlet’s reach.
The Fort Worth Zoo
Ruby has also taken on the role of big sister, constantly staying in contact with her mother Scarlet, letting her know where Jasper is at all times. Zoo officials say that Ruby can be seen exhibiting protective displays, standing over her new baby brother.
Prior to this year, the Fort Worth Zoo has only had a female mandrill born in 1992 and a male mandrill born in 1995.
Mandrills live in a small geographical region, smaller than the size of Texas, in west Africa — an area that consists of Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and parts of Cameroon. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the mandrill is listed as a vulnerable species, with a total population that is suspected to have decreased more than 30% over the last 24 years due to hunting and habitat destruction.
If you are interested in catching a glimpse of Jasper, he can now be seen in the Zoo’s World of Primates habitat alongside his troopmates, most likely snuggled close to Mother Scarlet. Keep an eye out for the sibling pair of mandrills on your next visit.
