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Blind monkey gives birth at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park

Baby monkey born at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park
Baby monkey born at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park

Clinging tightly to his mum, this cute little new-born monkey has no idea the beloved parent he relies on is virtually blind.

But, according to keepers at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, it doesn’t matter – proud Tolkien tends to all his needs.

Staff at the park have been amazed at how the "remarkable" nine-year-old parent, who had cataracts, has taken to her baby.

So far, the new arrival hasn’t been named, but he’s already been welcomed by his brother Gimli, who was born in October.

Tolkien and her children are black and gold howlers, normally found across Southern Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina.

The poor monkey, pictured by Dave Rolfe, has suffered with eye problems from an early age.

Her cataracts were removed by specialists, but vets couldn’t find lenses small enough for her tiny eyes.

As a result, Tolkien is still unable to focus – although it hasn’t stopped her being an attentive mum.

Head of Primates at Port Lympne, Simon Jeffery, said: "We are absolutely delighted to welcome this new arrival who is doing really well.

"Although he is currently golden like his mum, he will turn black like all males in his species at around two years of age.

"Tolkien is very friendly and confident so she is really popular with visitors and you have a great chance of spotting the new infant when you visit the park."

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