Three marmosets have been added to the Grimsby Institute Animal Management Centre. where sheep, meerkats and Kev, the cat are also cared for
Tango and Sprite the Marmosets at Grimsby Institute’s Animal Management Centre(Image: Donna Clifford/Grimsby Live)
The next generation of David Attenboroughs are learning the wonders of the animal world at Grimsby Institute thanks to three new recruits.
Tango, Cola and Sprite are marmosets and have made their home at the Institute’s Animal Management Centre. They enjoy plenty of vegetables, insects, eggs, and specially formulated feeds. An extremely important part of their diet is Arabic gum, as in the wild they heavily rely on tree sap and gum.
The Institute is the only facility in North East Lincolnshire to secure a primate licence, enabling it to house and care for the troop of marmosets on site. Lead animal technician, Zoe Lansley-Hogg said: “This milestone not only highlights exceptional animal welfare standards but gives students rare, hands-on experience in primate care.
“Securing the primate licence is an incredibly proud moment for our team… Most importantly, it allows us to give our students real-world experience in primate care, preparing them for careers in the animal management sector.”
“The marmosets have provided students with valuable hands-on learning opportunities that are not easily accessible in this region and have enhanced their understanding of primate care, behaviour, enrichment, nutrition, enclosure design, and welfare requirements.”
Normally the marmosets thrive in trees in South America, particularly Brazil and are known for their social skills. Tango is Sprite’s mother and Cola is the youngster’s dad.
Of of the marmosets at the Grimsby Institute(Image: Donna Clifford/Grimsby Live)
She added: “Students particularly enjoy observing their natural behaviours and helping to prepare enrichment activities and specialist diets. Having the primates on site has also allowed students to gain experience with more exotic species, helping to prepare them for careers within the animal care industry.”
The marmoset enclosure has been designed specifically with all of their needs in mind. This includes maintaining the humidity, lighting and heat they require, as well as providing plenty of opportunities to climb and jump between ropes and branches. The enclosure also allows them to naturally forage for insects amongst the plants and enrichment provided.
The Arabic gum they love is hidden in the enclosure so they learn foraging skills. Breeding could potentially be considered in the future, although there are currently no plans in place.
Zoe said: “Working within the animal care industry, we are always developing ideas and plans that would further improve the learning experience for students. As a team, we would love to see the future development of a nocturnal room, which would open opportunities for species better suited to these environments, such as sugar gliders.
“It would also provide students with a more immersive learning environment and allow them to observe behaviours that are not normally seen during the daytime.
“The centre is home to a wide variety of species including reptiles, invertebrates, livestock, primates, exotic mammals, and both large and small rodents. From sheep, meerkats, and giant katydids to Kev, our onsite cat, there is a huge variety of animals for students to work with. We also have two onsite businesses open to the public: a grooming centre and a dog day crèche, which provide even more practical opportunities for students.”
She said: “We ensure that all animals are given opportunities to display natural behaviours, are housed in specialised enclosures suited to their individual needs and requirements, and receive the highest standards of care possible. We are extremely thankful that these animals are able to inspire and educate future generations entering the animal care industry.”
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