Sussex zoo welcomes one of world's smallest monkeys

Rosie, a female pygmy marmoset, is the new arrival at Drusillas for a breeding programme

One of the world's smallest monkeys has arrived at a Sussex zoo as part of a breeding programme.

Rosie, an adult female pygmy marmoset, came to Drusillas Park, near Alfriston, East Sussex, from an animal park in Hertfordshire.

She joins resident male Ben and the zoo is hoping for its first babies of the breed for more than 10 years.

A Drusillas spokesperson said Rosie was following Ben everywhere he goes and "has developed quite the crush on him".

Rosie weighs just 108g (3.8oz). She is 13cm (5in) tall and 16 months old.

Pygmy marmosets are one of the smallest primates in the world, native to the rainforests of South America.

The species is classified as vulnerable due to habitat loss and the exotic pet trade.

Pygmy marmosets are one of the smallest mammals in the world

A successful breeding would provide a "crucial boost to the threatened population", the animal park said.

Mark Kenward, from Drusillas, said: "We have been hoping to welcome a female pygmy marmoset for some time, and are thrilled with how well Rosie is settling in.

"Pygmy marmosets are typically quite shy, but Rosie seems a little more confident in her nature.

"It seems to have brought Ben out of his shell as well."

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