Emirates Park Zoo & Resort is thrilled to welcome the latest addition to the zoo’s growing number of troops as the resident Mandrill Dora, gave birth to a bouncing baby boy last 3 February, 2018, making the furry monkey the newest member of the zoo’s primate family. 

Born with curious eyes for adventure, the Baby Mandrill can be spotted in the Primate Parade with parents Dora and Junio, who are both nurturing and protecting the infant together with the dedicated staff and zoo officials during its first few weeks of life.

Emirates Park Zoo Manager, Dr. Waleed Sha’aban said, “Although Dora is very protective, we are delighted to witness the little one exploring on its own, carefully learning the ropes and navigating its new home. We have skilful primate keepers who keep a close eye on the baby monkey as well as on Dora who is given the proper care for her baby. This marks our continuous drive towards maintaining a healthy genetic population for the future generations of Mandrills.”

As part of a grand welcoming for the infant, Emirates Park Zoo & Resort is giving the people of the UAE the privilege of naming the Baby Mandrill through an exciting social media competition. Social media users can vote from names including Damocles, Dali, Dakarai or Dabi.

Mandrills are the largest primitive species and ground-dwelling inhabitants who are classified as vulnerable to extinct in the wild due to hunting and deforestation. As a leader in conservation, the works of Emirates Park Zoo includes on-site wildlife conservation efforts on supporting international animal conservation groups.