By IW Observer.co.uk
The Monkey Haven in Staplers Road, Newport will be introducing two new residents this half-term.
Taabo and Imara are Diana monkeys who have found their forever home at Monkey Haven. Eight-year-old Taabo is a cheeky and adventurous chap who likes to look after his female companion, Imara, who is a little calm and shy.
The Dianas are endangered species and both have travelled from the Netherlands where they were part of the European Endangered Species Programme. The monkeys get their name from their white brow, which is said to resemble the bow of the Roman goddess, Diana.
Taabo’s genetic eye condition meant he couldn’t be selected for breeding. Imara has joined Taabo at Monkey Haven to keep him company because Diana monkeys are very sociable animals. As with all its animals, Monkey Haven organised and funded the licenses and logistics involved in bringing Taabo and Imara to the Isle of Wight.
The attraction also welcomes two great grey owls, Nutmeg and Coco. Nutmeg loves to be at the front of the aviary, especially when the sun’s out. Both birds have gorgeous grey feathers and bright yellow eyes.
The haven reopened yesterday (Thursday) after being closed for the winter and will be offering families and visitors a whole host of half-term fun and entertainment. ‘Love Week’ half-term activities will be running every day until February 27.
As well as meeting the new arrivals and listening to the award-winning keeper talks, from Monday (Feb 14), visitors will get the chance to speak to other Island animal charities such as the Wildlife Trust, RSPCA, Friends of the Animals and the Donkey Sanctuary. You can find out which charity will be attending on each day at monkeyhaven.org.
There are also activity sheets for kids, a love heart trail and plenty of opportunities to get up close to some of the animals, including meeting the owls and seeing the mini-beasts in the Reptile Lodge.
Isle of Wight Observer