MARWELL Zoo's newest baby monkey is certain to get children excited during the summer holidays as it tries to find its feet.

The critically endangered Sulawesi-crested macaque was born on July 28 to mum Drusilla and dad Douglas - the first to be born at the zoo for 10 years.

The infant, whose name has yet to be revealed, was unveiled to the world this week.

In the wild, macaque live in tropical rainforests and mangrove swamp areas in the northern peninsula of the Indonesian island.

But they face many threats in the wild, one of which is over hunting for food as they are considered a delicacy in areas of Sulawesi.

Claire Mound, team leader for primates and small mammals said: “We expect the baby will spend the first four months close to Drusilla whilst it gains strength, develops and finds its feet. Other members of the group may eventually also take a part in the rearing but at the moment, Drusilla wants to keep a tight hold of her new arrival.”

Hampshire Chronicle:

When first born, the infants have a pink face, hands and legs which will darken over time eventually becoming black.

They are noted for their punk rocker style 'mohawk' which forms as the baby matures.

It is the latest addition to the European Endangered Species Breeding Programme.