Guests at the North Carolina Zoo may have noticed a new addition to the zoo’s band (or group) of Hamadryas baboons. A young female named Winnie delivered naturally on June 16 is one of more than a dozen animals born during the zoo’s 50th anniversary year, including critically endangered red wolf pups, six Van der Decken’s hornbill chicks, and a bongo.
“At just two months old, Winnie is already an important ambassador for her species, including her cousins in the wild,” says Patricia Simmons, CEO and director of the North Carolina Zoo. “Her birth and continued good health is a testament to the excellent care provided by our dedicated animal staff as well as the thriving environment we provide as the world’s largest natural habitat zoo.”
Winnie is the second daughter born to Babu, a distinguished male within the band, and Candy, a strong and determined female. Winnie can often be spotted clinging closely to her mother — a trend that will likely continue over several more months until Winnie begins exploring the habitat on her own.
Winnie was named in honor of her late paternal grandfather, Gondar “Winslow,” who was widely beloved by zoo team members and guests. Candy and Babu previously welcomed Winnie’s sister, Addison, over two years ago. Addison, formerly the youngest member of the band, is adjusting well to her new role and showing curiosity and interest in her tiny sibling.
The North Carolina Zoo, recently named “Best Zoo” in America in a nationwide contest, is home to one of the largest bands of Hamadryas baboons in the United States, with twenty baboons currently in habitat. Winnie’s arrival provides an excellent opportunity for guests to learn about these primates’ social dynamics and their counterparts in the wild.
Contributed/Courtesy photo of Winnie and her parents.
