Two Baby Patas Monkeys Born at Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Raised by Keepers

Syracuse, N.Y. — The Rosamond Gifford Zoo has welcomed two baby patas monkeys, Sisu and Mushu, born just weeks apart. Sisu was born on April 26 to Iniko, while Mushu arrived on May 11, delivered by Iniko’s older sister, Kasi. Both infants are half-sisters, sharing the same father, Mac, the leader of the patas troop. Due to the social nature of patas monkeys, the zoo has structured their environment to mimic their natural habitat, featuring one male and several females. Zoo officials reported that both mothers exhibited a lack of maternal instinct, prompting keepers to intervene and raise the infants themselves. The survival rate for patas monkeys in the wild is notably low, as young mothers often struggle with parenting. The staff had been monitoring Iniko and Kasi closely for signs of distress and stepped in when necessary. The keepers are raising Sisu and Mushu together, utilizing their previous experience with Iniko, who was orphaned at birth in 2020 when her mother died during delivery. This hands-on approach aims to ensure the well-being of the young monkeys and enhance their chances of survival. Zoo Executive Director Ted Fox emphasized the significance of these births, stating that they represent an exceptional contribution to both the zoo's patas monkey troop and the broader North American population of the species, which faces challenges in reproduction.