HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) — Mesker Park Zoo and Botanical Garden revealed a new baby boy — a Howler monkey named Taavi.
Mesker Park Zoo officials said his name was picked by his care team from the Mayan language and translates to “adored one.”
A spokesperson for the zoo posted, “When primates are born they are hard to sex, because they cling to their mothers until they’re comfortable to begin exploring on their own. Once they venture away from the mom, the vet team is able to examine the baby and identify its sex.”
Officials said although Taavi is tan and white currently, he will turn a coal black color as he ages.
Zoo officials explained that the monkeys are born with the same color as their mother so they blend in at a young age.
Mesker Park Zoo officials said the family is located in the Amazonia section.
