https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/primates2 daily 0.75 2023-12-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946070598-WBBLY66TMOW7JW3F2RNK/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946139864-QK5HW5R0443J6HM4UYQ3/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946178481-D0GTKOT49HMVJ5LU9T2I/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946227822-2B4Y9QY13780I7VPV240/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+2+jpeg+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946282352-6JRYYLQ31H17V606RSYU/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946339017-1L92O3E37603T4KWRFC7/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946383131-BSJL6M6O1BQHIQRE4LEO/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946410966-3PX23Q0GXVJAM0BAOOVZ/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946505703-0SNV92V17JTTFWVVG4MO/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946540389-V76UFK3U48TSXF3C0AZ7/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946573132-8YILUBDEJ5WC4D0ISB29/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946595670-G696A1LLE2ICK3S8NJ3F/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946619845-197UVGJEN6KDQCV08TYZ/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg PRIMATES https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548244215484-IEOEL2RQ1K6D4FS54IOL/tit+monkey+map+4.jpg PRIMATES - RED-TITI MONKEY Plecturocebus cupreus Red-titi monkeys are diurnal (active during the day) and arboreal (tree dwelling). Pairs spend much of their time huddled together with their tails intertwined. Interesting fact: Their German name is Springaffen which means jumping monkeys. Habitat & threats Primary tropical rain forest. They inhabit particularly remote, inaccessible forest and rarely come down to the ground. They face natural threats from birds of prey who target Red titi monkeys as food. Diet Up to 75% of this monkey's diet is fruit, but they also eat leaves, seeds and insects. Females eat more insects when nursing offspring as their protein requirements increase. Insects are the best source available. They prefer to search for their food in the lower parts of the rain forest canopy. Breeding and social dynamics Titi monkey pairs mate for life and spend much of their time grooming each other. They have an elaborate system of communication that includes vocal, visual, olfactory (smelling) and tactile gestures. A family consists of a breeding pair and their offspring. The female only gives birth to one infant at a time after a gestation period of 155 days. Conservation Part of a managed European breeding programme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548251377229-28CLVXM1JGZQIQQ8WXNO/LEMUR+RISK+MAPS.jpg PRIMATES - Ring-tailed lemur Chrotogale owstoni Owston's civets are the focus of an in-situ conservation program in Vietnam. This species has always been considered vulnerable and, until now, they have not previously been studied in the wild. Interesting fact: In February 2013 two male civets were flown from the UK to join the in-situ project in Vietnam; one of them was from Shaldon! Habitat & threats: They have a limited range in lowland and montane evergreen forests, bamboo forest and wooded lowland river basins. The proximity of water combined with dense woodland habitat that this animal prefers means that they are under significant threat from man. Hunting through the use of snares combined with deforestation is a real threat to this beautiful and elusive animal. Diet: Earthworms form the bulk of this animal’s natural diet, they are also known to eat small vertebrates, insects and fruit. Breeding and social dynamics: Science knows very little about this animal’s behaviour in the wild; it is nocturnal and is believed to be solitary with pairs only coming together to mate and the female rearing the young on her own. After a gestation period of between 75-87 days a litter of between one and three young are born. Conservation: Part of a managed European breeding programme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548251982170-7N00Y6ZLHS8SW3LN3EPK/SLENDER+LORIS+NEW+.png PRIMATES - GREY SLENDER LORIS Loris lydekkerianus The Grey slender loris has a large range, across India and Sri Lanka, and is the most wide-spread of loris species. They are nocturnal and spend the nights wandering the forest looking for food. Unlike the slow lorises, slender lorises are not venomous. Habitat & threats: Grey slender lorises live in a wide range of forested habitats. Their main threat is habitat fragmentation as human populations expand into the forests, breaking it up and making it more difficult for lorises to come together to breed. Diet: Using their excellent eyesight and sense of smell grey slender lorises are masters at catching insects and other invertebrates which make up most of their diet. They will also occasionally eat fruit, plant shoots and tree sap. Breeding and social dynamics: A female mates with multiple males when she is fertile, to ensure her offspring get the best genes possible. Pregnancy lasts 165 days with an equal chance of a single offspring or twins. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548252267952-OHI1AK4P1RUKGL80CTIS/CAPUCHIN+NEW+.jpg PRIMATES - YELLOW-BREASTED CAPUCHIN Sapajus xanthosternos The Yellow-breasted capuchin has lost over 80 percent of its population during the past 50 years. It is estimated that only about 300 individuals survive in the wild. Interesting fact: The name capuchin is derived from the word “Capuche” which was the skull cap worn by Franciscan monks. Habitat & threats: Primary and secondary rainforest. Deforestation within their limited range makes it hard for isolated groups of capuchins to disperse. The Yellow-breasted capuchin is also trapped for the pet trade and hunted for meat by local people. Diet: Their diet is predominantly made up of fruit, leaves and seeds. Only a small part of their natural diet is made up of live prey but they will spend time hunting for insects, birds and eggs. Breeding and social dynamics: They live in multi male and female groups with one male being dominant to all others. These capuchins stay in touch by communicating vocally with each other using barks, growls, screams, whistles and chattering. Youngsters take 12 months to wean. Conservation: This species is among the rarest South American primates. Shaldon Wildlife Trust supports in-situ research in the forests of Brazil studying their behaviour and biology. Part of a managed European breeding programme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548252416881-0WXLAYWUZOLOKCX8VNAJ/SQUIRELL+MONKEY+NEW+2.jpg PRIMATES - COMMON SQUIRREL MONKEY Saimiri sciureus Squirrel monkeys are noisy and constantly on the move, often following groups of capuchin monkeys. In the wild, these two species help each other by keeping a look out for predators and with finding food. Interesting fact: Squirrel monkeys urinate on their hands and rub it on their tails, which is a scent marking technique called “urine washing”. Habitat & threats: The Squirrel monkey’s habitat is primarily within the Amazon basin. They prefer to be high in the canopy although they do occasionally come to ground. Birds of prey and snakes are natural predators but huge numbers have been trapped for the pet trade and for medical research. Diet: Squirrel monkeys spend much of the day looking for a wide variety of foods including; nectar and seeds, tree frogs, insects, bird's eggs, snails, lizards, fruit, and occasionally freshwater crabs. Breeding and social dynamics: Groups can number as many as 100 animals in areas of undisturbed forest with 20 - 30 being more common. Family groups are a mixture of males and females. After a gestation of between 150-160 days one offspring is born. Females undertake all childcare duties. The majority of females remain with their family group when they become adult while most of the males will leave when they reach maturity and form sub-groups. Conservation: Part of a managed European breeding programme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548252858572-B0O75AE7EI9DPS1N49LF/PYGMY+SLOW+LORIS+NEW+2+.jpg PRIMATES - PYGMY SLOW LORIS Nycticebus pygmaeus The pygmy slow loris is the smallest member of the slow loris family. Unlike many other primates pygmy slow lorises can’t jump! The pygmy slow loris moves around the forest always holding onto branches: they have hands specially adapted for this and have incredible core strength for reaching and leaning. Habitat & threats: The pet trade has had a huge impact on the number of pygmy slow lorises in the wild. Although it is illegal to remove them from the forest and trade in them, the laws designed to keep them in place are very hard to enforce and often are not. Lorises are a very sought after ingredient in traditional medicines and are taken in huge numbers from their natural habitat. Diet: Their diet is varied and seasonal, consisting mainly of plant exudates such as gums and resins, but also nectar, fruits, insects, bark and bird egg. In winter when food is scarcer pygmy slow lorises conserve energy by reducing movement, often to the point of complete inactivity. Slow lorises are the only venomous primates. When they lick a gland on their inner elbow and it mixes with their saliva it creates venom similar to the cat allergen; research is ongoing into this fascinating defence mechanism. Breeding and social dynamics: Pygmy slow lorises are normally encountered alone, or in small groups of two to four individuals. Males use scent marking to defend territories and mark their boundaries. Females prefer to mate with males whose scent is familiar. Conservation: This species is part of a managed European breeding programme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548421192202-CGVOTZNYFBOR60SUU5XX/COTTON+TOP+TAMRIN+NEW.jpg PRIMATES - COTTON-TOP TAMARIN Saguinus oedipus Cotton-top tamarins are one of the most endangered species of primate in the world. Numbers in the wild may be as few as 6000 animals. Habitat & threats: They are found in regions of humid tropical forest at an elevation ranging from 200m-1000m. Roads and agriculture threaten the remaining habitat of the tamarin. They have an extremely limited distribution, occurring in north western Columbia between the Atrato and the Magdalena Rivers. Diet: Their diet is highly seasonal, correlating with the rainy season when most trees are fruiting. When fruit is scarce, the proportion of gums, nectar and insects in the diet increases. With fruit making up the largest portion of the diet, cotton-top tamarins may be important seed dispersers in the rainforest. Breeding and social dynamics: The cotton-top tamarin is a very social primate that normally lives in groups of two to nine individuals, but family groups may reach up to 13 members. The dominant female usually gives birth to twins, which the rest of the group help to rear. This is known as cooperative breeding. Conservation: This species is part of a managed European breeding programme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548421502382-E8ZPXNHYMDSXZEX31FNI/MOUSE+LEMURE+NEW.jpg PRIMATES - GREY MOUSE LEMUR Microcebus murinus Mouse lemurs are found on the island of Madagascar and are the world’s smallest primate. They are nocturnal and all foraging, hunting of insects and social activities take place at night. Mouse lemurs move by leaping from tree to tree but are known to come to ground to catch insects. Females are dominant in all situations and males and females sleep in separate groups only coming together for the breeding season. Mouse lemurs have special teeth formation (dentition) specifically for grooming, which is a very important social activity. Habitat & threats: Mouse lemurs are one of the lesser threatened lemur species. It is suggested that because they are so small and have such a varied diet, they find it easier to thrive. A number are lost to the illegal pet trade every year and they face the same threat of habitat loss as all native Madagascan species. Diet: They are omnivorous, and favour fruit and insects for the bulk of their diet. Nectar is also a part of the grey mouse lemur's diet, making it a potential pollinator for plant species. Breeding and social dynamics: Mouse lemurs prefer to forage alone at night but will come together in small groups to sleep through the day. Females tend to share nests with other females and their offspring, whereas males tend to sleep alone or in pairs outside of the breeding season. Males will compete for females to mate with before the breeding season which is September to October. Females give birth to 2-3 offspring after a pregnancy of just 60 days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1558718669271-3VANLKT7OUY922QAD594/Pied.jpg PRIMATES - PIED TAMARIN Saguinus bicolour Also known as bare-faced tamarins. The Pied tamarin has one of the smallest ranges of any primate and is now thought to be one of the most endangered monkeys in the forests of the Amazon. Interesting fact: As well as climbing with sharp claws, Pied tamarins can leap great distances from tree to tree. Habitat & threats: Found only in and around the city of Manaus, some are now isolated in tiny fragments of forest within the city. They occur only in dense tropical forest. There are still Pied tamarins in continuous forest north of the city, but another species, the more common Red-handed tamarin is now threatening to take over their small territory. Diet: Like other tamarins, they eat a variety of foods including fruit, nectar, tree sap and animal prey such as insects and bird's eggs. Breeding and social dynamics: Pied tamarins are very territorial and live in family groups of mother, father and offspring. Twins are usually born and carried by the male and brothers and sisters. They all sleep together in a tangle of vines or hollows of trees. Conservation: Part of a managed European breeding programme as well as an international effort to protect them in their natural range. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548421778181-3IIZ8Q5XLUUHQ3O8EF7X/PYGMY+MARMOSET+NEW+2+.jpg PRIMATES - PYGMY MARMOSET Cebuella pygmaea Pygmy marmosets are the world’s smallest monkey; males weigh just over 100g, the females are slightly larger weighing just over 122g and new-borns are only 16g! Interesting fact: Despite its size, the Pygmy marmoset can leap several metres! Habitat & threats: Forest near rivers, edges of agricultural fields and bamboo thickets where there is only limited human activity. Much of this primate’s habitat is under considerable threat from deforestation to make way for agriculture. Diet: Mostly exudates such as tree saps and gums although fruit, nectar and insect prey are also eaten. Nearly 65% of the diet is from exudates and they gouge holes in the bark of many trees to keep a constant supply of tree sap. Marmosets have specially adapted teeth for this task, it has been recorded that they can gouge over 1700 holes in 6 months. They spend most of their life in the trees but will come to the ground to catch grasshoppers. Breeding and social dynamics: Monogamous family groups of one male and one female with several sets of youngsters but groups can be as large as 15 animals or more. The female will normally give birth to twins after around 130 days of pregnancy. The dominant male will not allow any of the younger males to mate with the breeding female. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548421917130-0V21TLL068RSO4C163NJ/RED+BELLY+LEMUR+NEW.jpg PRIMATES - RED-BELLIED LEMUR Eulemur rubriventer Male and female Red-bellied lemurs differ from each other in appearance, they are both mostly dark brown, but the female has creamy white underparts and the male has small ‘teardrop’ shaped patches under his eyes. Habitat & threats: It is thought to be one of the rarest species in the family of Eulmur, but despite this it is commonly kept in captivity. Habitat loss due to slash and burn agriculture and deforestation, logging and hunting are their main threats. Approximately 90 per cent of Madagascan natural forest has been destroyed since human occupation on the island. Diet: In the wild the Red-bellied lemur has a diet which includes fruit, plant species, flowers, leaves and invertebrates. Breeding and social dynamics: Red-bellied lemurs usually live in family groups . As with all lemurs it is the female that is dominant, leading the group as they forage for food. As they feed, one of the group will be the lookout for any danger, rather like our meerkats! The female will carry an infant on her tummy and then her back, as it gets older the male takes on parental duties until the infant becomes independent. Conservation: They are part of an EEP, European Endangered Species Programme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548422134995-EG9B3SK3K913SWLHBWSQ/RED+RUFFLED+LEMUR.jpg PRIMATES - RED-RUFFED LEMUR Varecia rubra One of the 25 most endangered primates in the world, red-ruffed lemurs are in serious danger of becoming extinct. Found in a very small area of Madagascar, this lemur needs the help of zoos to protect its future. Interesting fact: The ruffed lemur's thick coat keeps it warm and dry in the rainy season. Habitat & threats: Primary rain forest in the upper canopy, they prefer high forest and are often observed in the crowns of large fruiting trees. Natural predators are Fossa, Goshawk and two mongoose species. Their most significant threat is man who hunts them for bush meat and causes serious habitat loss. They are reliant on the largest trees in undisturbed forest which are the first choice of loggers. As a result, they are the first to be affected by deforestation with few areas of mature forest left. Diet: Fruit, young shoots and leaves. They are important seed dispersers. Ruffed lemurs pass seeds in their droppings within 2 hours of eating fruit. Breeding and social dynamics: They live in large family groups ruled by a dominant female. Twins are normally born and infants are “parked” for the first week in a nest. Instead of clinging on like many lemurs, baby ruffed lemurs are carried in their mother’s mouth. Both males and females care for the young. Conservation: It is protected officially only within the Masoala National Park and the Makira Protected Area. However, Masoala was the national park most heavily impacted by the very rapid upsurge of illegal logging after the political events of early 2009. This species is part of a managed European breeding programme. https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/mammals daily 0.75 2023-12-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946686711-I8H5LHETB45A4LAZWQDS/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg MAMMALS https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946706835-8Y8QXFXHGD4Y9GLJZ8VU/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg MAMMALS https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946743519-CH7I9PXFSIF84LGQI7JT/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg MAMMALS https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946812730-G8EWXANN3O6HQU3LVCMJ/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg MAMMALS https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946839404-GK4ZNOFP1RBLS9T6ZDIJ/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg MAMMALS https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946882846-FWOOZCB626GJJQKOKQJ1/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg MAMMALS https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548947542012-PHJO9FYDPLYCGN854HVH/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg MAMMALS https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548423413122-UY94M111VVS1VAUKIDJZ/MARGAY+NEW+.jpg MAMMALS - MARGAY Leopardus wiedii The Margay is a spotted cat native to the Americas. Named after Prince Maximilian of Wied-Neuwied, a German explorer and naturalist in the Eighteenth century, which is reflected in its latin name. Interesting fact: Margay are also known as the Tree Ocelot; flexible ankles allow them to climb up and down trees easily. Habitat & threats: The Margay lives in areas of dense forest, although they have been observed in coffee and cocoa plantations. They spend the majority of their time high up in trees. They are threatened by habitat destruction and hunting; around 14,000 Margay are trapped each year for the fur trade. Natural predators include larger carnivores and snakes such as the Boa constrictor. Diet: Mostly small mammals (including monkeys) as well as birds, eggs, lizards and tree frogs. Breeding and social dynamics: Margay are solitary, nocturnal animals who have a large territory which they mark by spraying urine and scratching branches. Adults only come together to breed. Females attract males with a long, moaning call. The male responds by yelping or making trilling sounds, and also by rapidly shaking his head from side to side, a behaviour not seen in any other cat species. Usually only one kitten is born after about 80 days of pregnancy. Conservation: Part of a managed European breeding programme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548423668277-LK8THJY7PYDWMQZNU6O5/MEERKATS+NEW.jpg MAMMALS - SLENDER TAILED MEERKATS Suricata suricatta The meerkat is a member of the mongoose family. They get their name from the Afrikaans word for 'watching' or 'looking' cat, as a member of the group is always on sentry duty keeping watch for predators. Interesting fact: The dark patches around the Meerkat's eyes shield them from the glare of the African sun, Iike built-in sunglasses! Habitat & threats: They are found throughout the dry and arid terrain of the Kalahari Desert. Threats are mainly natural predators; large snakes hunt Meerkats but they are fiercely defensive and even when they get bitten they often survive venomous snake bites because they have developed a level of immunity to venom. Diet: Meerkats are primarily insectivores, but also eat lizards, snakes, scorpions, spiders, plants, eggs, small mammals and, more rarely, small birds. Meerkats are one of the very few predators of the scorpions of the Kalahari Desert. They have no excess body fat stores, so foraging for food is a daily requirement. Breeding and social dynamics: A group of meerkats are called a “mob” “gang” or “clan”. A meerkat clan often contains about 20 animals. They have a strong social structure and are led by an 'alpha' pair. It is the alpha pair who breed up to 4 times a year. After a gestation of about 77 days a litter of up to 5 blind pups are born in an underground den. Pups start to leave the den after three weeks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548423807943-ADN2LF47SA6SMQXVBEGS/CIVET+2.jpg MAMMALS - Owston's civets Chrotogale owstoni Owston's civets are the focus of an in-situ conservation program in Vietnam. This species has always been considered vulnerable and, until now, they had not previously been studied in the wild. Interesting fact: In February 2013 two male civets were flown from the UK to join the in-situ project in Vietnam; one of them was from Shaldon! Habitat & threats: They have a limited range in lowland and montane evergreen forests, bamboo forest and wooded lowland river basins. The proximity of water combined with dense woodland habitat that this animal prefers means that they are under significant threat from man. Hunting through the use of snares combined with deforestation is a real threat to this beautiful and elusive animal. Diet: Earthworms form the bulk of this animal’s natural diet, they are also known to eat small vertebrates, insects and fruit. Breeding and social dynamics: Science knows very little about this animal’s behaviour in the wild; it is nocturnal and is believed to be solitary with pairs only coming together to mate and the female rearing the young on her own. After a gestation period of between 75-87 days a litter of between one and three young are born. Conservation: Part of a managed European breeding programme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/09af08ea-ba83-4405-bd65-9d3556898e48/IMG-20230406-WA0000.jpg MAMMALS - Binturong Arctictis binturong Also known as a bear-cat, this mostly nocturnal Asian mammal is part of the Viverridae family which also includes animals such as civets and genets. Binturongs are excellent climbers living high in the forest canopy and rarely come down to the ground. Their hind legs can rotate backwards to help grip while going headfirst down a tree and they also have a partially prehensile tail. Habitat & threats: They are found amongst dense rainforest areas in across South and South East Asia. The main threat binturong face is habitat destruction but they also suffer from logging, hunting and the wildlife trade. Diet: Binturong are considered omnivores and have a varied diet in the wild consisting of fruits, eggs, invertebrates, small mammals, fish, birds, leaves and shoots. Breeding and social dynamics: They usually live alone or in small family groups. Females are larger than males and usually give birth to 1-2 offspring after a gestation of 84-92 days Conservation: Classed as vulnerable to extinction they are part of a European breeding programme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548947008702-EGMFI442DX79BX0OGE4B/ARMADILLO+NEW.jpg MAMMALS - Southern three-banded armadillo Tolypeutes matacus The southern three-banded armadillo is remarkable for being one of the few armadillo species capable of rolling into a ball. The armour-plating that covers the body is divided into two domed shells, with three armoured bands in between, joined by flexible bands of skin. Habitat & threats This armadillo is found in areas of dry vegetation within the Chaco. It usually does not dig burrows but rather uses abandoned burrows of other species or hides in dense vegetation. It is hunted for food, being easy to catch and also suffers from habitat loss through the conversion of habitat to agricultural use. Diet Most armadillo species forage in the early morning and evening hours for a variety of invertebrates and insects, including beetles, grubs, and worms. Because, like many burrowing animals, armadillos tend to have extremely poor eyesight, their hunting skills rely on their abilities to smell their food. Breeding and social dynamics Breeding occurs between October and January, with most births occurring between November and January. After a gestation period of 120 days, the female gives birth to a single young, which is suckled for a further 10 weeks. Conservation The southern three-banded armadillo is found in a number of protected areas, which provide a refuge from the habitat destruction that is occurring within its range. In addition, a captive population of this species is maintained in zoos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548519863535-CHPYJKH6AKIEPBNUPV2N/PREVOST+SQUIRELL.jpg MAMMALS - SUMATRAN PREVOST’S SQUIRREL Caloscurius prevostii rafflesii There are 5 recognised sub-species of Prevost’s squirrel, all of which can be found on the islands and mainland of Southeast Asia. Habitat & threats: This sub-species occurs in the lowland forests of Sumatra. They can also be found in oil palm and coconut plantations where they are regarded as pests. Their forest homes are disappearing fast and they are also hunted for the pet trade. Diet: They feed mostly on a variety of nuts and seeds as well as soft fruits and flowers. They will also eat insects to supplement their diet. Breeding and social dynamics: Prevost’s squirrels are solitary in the wild and communicate with a range of chirps, whistles and tail waving. The female chooses a mate through an elaborate courtship chase where only the fittest male will be chosen. They can have up to three litters a year, with the youngsters leaving the nest after only six weeks. Conservation: Part of a managed European breeding programme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1558720598912-6D8ZXB5LEK8X7XVNHXWU/Bettong.jpg MAMMALS - BRUSH-TAILED BETTONG Bettongia pencillata Also known as a woylie, this is an extremely rare, small marsupial that is endemic to Australia. There were two subspecies, but one is now extinct. Since 2001, the population has crashed by over 90% which means the entire species is at risk of becoming extinct in the wild. Habitat & threats Preferring open woodlands and grasslands, with a dense understory where they can create pathways in tussocks of grasses. The exact cause of this rapid population crash remains uncertain. Predation from feral cats and foxes as well as habitat destruction contribute to the recent decline of the species. Diet The brush-tailed bettong has an unusual diet for a mammal. Although it may eat bulbs, tubers, seeds, insects, and resin of the hakea plant, the bulk of its nutrients are derived from underground fungi which it digs out with its strong foreclaws. Breeding and social dynamics The female can breed at six months of age and give birth every 3.5 months. Its lifespan in the wild is about four to six years. The brush-tailed bettong is able to use its tail, to carry bundles of nesting material. It builds its dome-shaped nest in a shallow scrape under a bush. Conservation As of 2011, the global population is estimated to be less than 5,600 individuals. It is said to be "on the brink of extinction”. There are a number of protected areas free of predators where conservation work is being focused as well as a captive breeding programme in Australia and European zoos, including Shaldon. https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/birds daily 0.75 2019-05-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548762599599-O5KZL4QI104PCCDIDT7S/love%2BBIRDS%2B2%2BNEW+%281%29.jpg BIRDS - BLACK-CHEEKED LOVEBIRD Agapornis nigrigenis Thought to be the rarest species of parrot in Africa, these small birds were captured for the pet trade in huge numbers in the early part of the last century. Interesting fact: Most of the birds in UK zoos can be traced back to the original flock from Bristol zoo. Habitat & threats The Black-cheeked lovebird inhabits deciduous woodland where there is a permanent supply of surface water. They are listed as vulnerable with a small and declining population that is suffering habitat loss. This is caused by boreholes diverting water for man's usage and less annual rainfall which reduces the amount of surface water in their range. Natural predators include snakes and birds of prey. Diet They feed mainly at ground level on annual grass seeds and other vegetable crops such as corn, sorghum and millet, they also feed on insect larvae. Breeding and social dynamics These birds can be seen in flocks of over 800 individuals although smaller flocks are more common. They breed well in captivity and are able to have more than one clutch per season. The female builds an elaborate nest and lays 2-6 eggs. Youngsters fledge between 30-44 days after an incubation of 16-24 days. Both the male and female will incubate the eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548762710958-Z3PKG3E7SE4PURFX72RD/NORTHERN%2BWHITE%2BFACED%2BOWL%2BNEW.jpg BIRDS - NORTHERN WHITE-FACED OWL Ptilopsis leucotis These nocturnal owls are very well known for their ability to "transform" their shape. If faced with a threat they can elongate their bodies and contract their plumage, making themselves taller and thinner – a little like a branch of a tree. Interesting fact: Contrary to popular belief, owls cannot turn their heads all the way round. They do, however, have long, flexible necks, which mean the head can be rotated through 270°, almost all the way round! Habitat & threats Thorn scrub and savannah woodland. The population are considered stable although as with all African bird species, loss of habitat remains a concern. Like the majority of owl species they have very few predators however chicks are preyed upon by snakes. Diet They prey on insects, birds and rodents (up to small rat size). Breeding and social dynamics They live either singly or in pairs. The female will lay a clutch of 2 or 3 eggs in the old stick-nests of many other bird species, including small raptors such as goshawks and kites - or even herons, dove or crow's nests. If these are not available, they will nest in natural tree holes. The 30 day incubation is mainly by the female, although the male may assist. Young chicks will start to fly at roughly 33 days, leaving the nest area two weeks thereafter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548762916438-B7JYX6RJYFBZYWG68MZ3/CONCURE%2BNEW.jpg BIRDS - BLUE-THROATED CONURE Pyrrhura cruentata Formerly common throughout much of south-east Brazil, the Blue-throated conure’s range has become highly fragmented and distribution is now isolated to about 20 known areas; these are generally restricted to reserves. Habitat & threats It inhabits the canopy of lowland humid forest, much of which is disappearing very rapidly due to expanding plantations. Natural predators are limited to snakes and nest robbing mammals. Diet Flocks of these parakeets can be observed at forest edges or in the canopy, feeding on the seeds and fruits of a variety of secondary forest trees. Breeding and social dynamics A highly social bird, they form flocks when feeding. Breeding occurs from September to December when two to four eggs are normally laid in a nest within a tree cavity. The eggs are incubated for 22 to 25 days and the nesting period that follows lasts around 45 days. https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/reptiles daily 0.75 2019-05-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548765021906-CDHXD9DLH0J3VA0I8WDC/TORTOISE.jpg REPTILES - Yellow-footed tortoise Chelonoidis denticulata The Yellow-footed tortoise is also called the Yellow-foot or Yellow-legged tortoise, the Brazilian giant tortoise, or South American forest tortoise, as well as local names such as morrocoy, woyamou or wayamo. Habitat & threats They are found in drier forest areas, grasslands, and the savannah, or rainforest belts adjoining more open habitats. As with many other turtles and tortoises, they are often hunted for food. Diet In the wild their diets consist of grasses, fallen fruit, carrion, plants, bones, mushrooms, excrement, and slow-moving invertebrates such as snails, worms, and others they are able to capture. Breeding and social dynamics As with most tortoise species they are solitary and come together to mate. Male tortoises are known to swing their heads back and forth in a continuous rhythm as a mating ritual, they will also battle with each other to win a female. There is no parental care from either parent once the female lays her 6-12 eggs in a shallow nest in the ground. When the young hatch the baby tortoises will fend for themselves, starting by eating calcium-rich plant matter. Conservation This species is protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, Appendix II. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1558717389341-04X0OHX654C3RONAGIM3/Blue+dart+frog.jpg REPTILES - Blue dart frog Dendrobates tinctorius "azureus" Blue dart frogs are active during the day and can be found hiding amongst rocks and debris near streams and among leaf litter on the forest floors. Habitat and threats Found in the humid forest surrounded by the Sipaliwini savanna, often near water such as streams. They are still taken for the exotic pet trade and are at risk fro water pollution. Diet They hunt for tiny live insects amongst the trees and plants of the rainforest. Social dynamics and breeding Males sit on a rock or log and produce a loud call to attract a female. They always lay eggs near water where the males fertilise and guards the eggs until they develop into tadpoles. The males then carry the tadpoles to the water to allow them to develop into frogs. https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/new-events-1 daily 0.75 2025-07-10 https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/new-events-1/2025/7/7/teignmouth-show monthly 0.5 2025-07-10 https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/new-events-1/2025/12/5/christmas-raffle-at-conservative-club-shaldon monthly 0.5 2025-10-16 https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/new-events-1/2025/7/8/harvest-raffle-conservative-club-shaldon monthly 0.5 2025-07-09 https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/new-events-1/2026/5/1/tobys-garden-fesitval-powderham-castle monthly 0.5 2025-07-09 https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/new-events-1/2025/12/3/victorian-market-newton-abbot monthly 0.5 2025-07-09 https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/new-events-1/2025/10/12/cockington-apple-day monthly 0.5 2025-07-09 https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/new-events-1/2025/8/2/shaldon-water-carnival monthly 0.5 2025-07-09 https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/new-events-1/2025/7/8/yealmpton-agricultural-show monthly 0.5 2025-07-09 https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/animals daily 0.75 2018-12-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946410966-3PX23Q0GXVJAM0BAOOVZ/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg Animals https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1558705558880-JGRHAL6ATBWT979J5KFJ/PRIMATES.jpg Animals https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1558624164517-OOU23R6V0X3PPSVQDB2U/OTHER+MAMMALS.jpg Animals https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1547558936058-F07VEKMUEWO83NAMFTQ4/BIRDS+NEW+2.jpg Animals https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1558720946689-U53RWA71QPABVUL747UX/REPTILES+NEW+NEW.jpg Animals https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/visit-us daily 0.75 2026-03-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548947468144-UJMZQ23Z3PPOYVSTWZBH/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg Visit Us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/cf7c157e-03d5-4265-8c81-9e07e025b65f/AccessAble+QR+code.JPG Visit Us - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/conservation daily 0.75 2019-01-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548686847923-ZNAGWP121TYFWVEHMSHK/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+2+jpeg+.jpg Conservation https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/education daily 0.75 2018-12-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548686899130-14N7JVULCK67E1I6O7R0/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+2+jpeg+.jpg Education https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/support-us daily 0.75 2019-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548686928133-ONECVSU8UH2I5KR3FOD8/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+2+jpeg+.jpg Support us https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/home daily 1.0 2024-10-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548946882846-FWOOZCB626GJJQKOKQJ1/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+.jpg Home https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/java daily 0.75 2019-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548767107204-3DI7F59E8NLFVZN3KWWN/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+2+jpeg+.jpg Java https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/madagascar daily 0.75 2019-01-08 https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/colombia daily 0.75 2019-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548766509909-HK6YTV3AKSCJ6HK52JVJ/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+2+jpeg+.jpg Colombia https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/brazil daily 0.75 2022-01-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548766466136-BP2CLU7VX8P6YHVTLTFD/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+2+jpeg+.jpg Brazil https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/peru daily 0.75 2019-01-08 https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/vietnam daily 0.75 2019-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1548766782953-M1CVDQ06ADOXSVSPJBFP/JUNGLE+ZOO+LEAVES+2+jpeg+.jpg VIETNAM https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/ll-voucher daily 0.75 2019-12-11 https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/sponsorship-form daily 0.75 2020-12-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1607253883532-DHA7Y9M8C7BL5BVWHY35/Sponsor+Blank.jpg Sponsorship form https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/zoo-food daily 0.75 2026-02-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/db9d3398-3d63-4351-8217-76ec42a0f5b4/wheel+chair+push+final.png Zoo Food - Sponsored Wheelchair Push ‍♂️♿ A Sponsored Wheelchair Push for Wildlife – Dawlish to Shaldon Wildlife Trust On 20 June 2026, Harry Coleman will walk from Dawlish Seafront to Shaldon Wildlife Trust, pushing his mother Dorris in her wheelchair, to raise funds for wildlife conservation. Fundraising target: £6,000 Thank you for your support https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/6a18fb45-57cc-45d8-ae2b-59d7f7720bb1/ChatGPT+Image+Jul+8%2C+2025%2C+01_32_03+PM.png Zoo Food - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1751980092350-JSERRN842XVSRD6GDVQY/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-08+at+14.06.37.jpeg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1751975974974-55QF2B7J0X35XF6B8ICK/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-05+at+20.46.50.jpeg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1751975970017-LOW9S07W2MAWWMW6TD7M/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-03+at+11.57.06.jpeg Zoo Food - The unused land Before on site Before the idea was conceived this was the plot https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1751975959439-V9J90BA0ZQMS8JVM47TW/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-03+at+10.54.00+%281%29.jpeg Zoo Food - Today the on site plot https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1751975960578-1BAKZQOYB34Q96OGJR57/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-03+at+10.54.00+%282%29.jpeg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1751975962647-XL9Y387W6WODONZLCHX9/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-03+at+10.54.01+%281%29.jpeg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1751975963698-QCXZERJ6F87LZ7B0PXQH/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-03+at+10.54.01+%282%29.jpeg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1751975965098-CQQ3R8BHH4Y1RSRLMFCH/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-03+at+10.54.01.jpeg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1751975965935-1MU0GYZITAFTBDGUMOQT/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-03+at+11.53.13+%281%29.jpeg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1751975967906-ICR8W24R3CDYDQ7SKMXW/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-03+at+11.53.13+%282%29.jpeg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1751975968830-1LM157XO78HJE1PUNX58/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-03+at+11.53.13.jpeg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1751980165365-MG76OGXZC16WIIFCXGB6/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-08+at+14.08.25.jpeg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1752584351219-3NMT6WR45JF23OO1SL7B/1000001662.jpg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1752584390183-HCX6MNWGAHUK4DTCWPVZ/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-14+at+17.33.42.jpeg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1752584352065-AMKP9KXQHG8EVKYWTFS4/1000006194.jpg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1766149636034-BFRSNPOIEXGIAITPA4Z5/545097248_122119415402961858_584161091331599109_n.jpg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1766149799815-A6EZH36LJ8SHQFJC4450/574312223_122131806782961858_8978107429417562485_n.jpg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1766149802982-FB6RKJLAXIM6E76AV920/571508116_122131806656961858_7943809996329374673_n.jpg Zoo Food https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/3db926ac-b7c0-47a4-9366-f18ea2720c21/zoo+food+2_+copy.jpg Zoo Food One of our red-bellied lemur’s eats and embraces the first on site produce grown. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/ac0dc5a7-d0d7-468b-9c88-a0dbafd6123e/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-03+at+10.54.00.jpeg Zoo Food Zood Food’s on site Allotment at Shaldon Zoo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/83d88382-f069-4d8e-bad4-457185ba7ce3/WhatsApp+Image+2025-07-03+at+11.53.13+%282%29.jpeg Zoo Food The second plot for growing food for the animals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1752097758917-W0XL0XIOZI7L8LAFE6TV/unsplash-image-zQTw2g6JY6U.jpg Zoo Food - Make it stand out Shaldon Wildlife Trust Meet the Meerkats Experience https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/cdabf145-4d7d-4a22-af1f-514b8ad3f077/my+story+app+logo.jpeg Zoo Food - Make it stand out 10% of every yearly subscription goes directly to Shaldon Food Wildlife Trust. Your contribution is added to the charity pot with the target of £6,000. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/2c25493e-0022-482c-af56-316b88c550ac/Handout+card.png Zoo Food - Make it stand out When you download the Easy fundraising App you can rest assured to know that whenever you shop in store or online you can now you are passively raising donations for Zoo Food @ Shaldon Wildlife Trust in the process https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/meet-the-zoo-food-volunteers daily 0.75 2025-12-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/7d0c3a62-da69-43fe-aac1-4d3964c5bc91/WhatsApp+Image+2025-12-19+at+13.01.53.jpeg Meet the Zoo Food Volunteers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/fe97e095-a2ad-45c8-9a9e-57a0319aa470/540480336_122116874150961858_2565812545189551102_n.jpg Meet the Zoo Food Volunteers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1752582056412-PJFNFKZ8MIQWGMLVVYIM/unsplash-image-ZOwKcv66Pxo.jpg Meet the Zoo Food Volunteers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/1752582114748-ROIREYXXN09EDRR660JN/unsplash-image-FZJO5-NFVzI.jpg Meet the Zoo Food Volunteers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/support-zoo-food daily 0.75 2025-10-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bf67f989f877021a45105cb/974d0aec-48ce-483f-9f8c-ed2aa8743b2b/efr_cause_qr.png Support Zoo Food - Make it stand out Scan me and search our cause Zoo Food @ shaldon wildlife trust https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk/donors-of-zoo-food daily 0.75 2025-12-19