Monkeys bring a touch of fun to a Banburyshire care home

The residents at residents of Godswell Park Care Home in Bloxham were treated to a visit from two very lively Squirrel Monkeys, Tia and Antonio, last Friday.
The squirrel monkeys proved a big success with residents at Godswell Park Care HomeThe squirrel monkeys proved a big success with residents at Godswell Park Care Home
The squirrel monkeys proved a big success with residents at Godswell Park Care Home

The visit of the monkeys follows a visit from penguins. Between these visits Godswell Park have had many other animals visit the home to the delight of residents. There are a number of benefits for residents.

"Cuddling and handling an animal fulfils an emotional and caring need and listening to the knowledgeable handlers talking about the monkeys assists with mental stimulation," said spokesman John Wilmott.

"Tia and Antonio were both mischievous but that was hoped for and expected. They could not sit still and delighted residents and staff as they climbed across peoples’ shoulders. Antonio got hold of some chocolate cake and Tia showed off when climbing along a line of rope with hanging flags. All good fun and the residents enjoyed the experience."

This monkey made itself at home on a residents shoulderThis monkey made itself at home on a residents shoulder
This monkey made itself at home on a residents shoulder

Squirrel Monkeys normally live in the canopies of the tropical rain forests of Central and South America and coastal forests of Brazil. They are small in stature (25-35 centimetres long with a tail 35-42cms long and males weigh between 750-1,100 grams while females weigh 500-750 grams) and their fur is short and close, coloured black at the shoulders and yellowish orange on its back and extremities. The upper parts of the head are hairy and they have black and white faces.

Squirrel monkeys live together in troupes with up to 500 members. It is common though that these larger troupes break up into smaller groups.

Unlike other New World monkeys they do not use their tail to assist with climbing but more as a balancing pole. The monkeys have a number of vocal calls, including warning sounds to protect the group from Falcons which are a natural threat. The monkeys small body size also makes them susceptible to predators such as snakes and felids (small cats).

Squirrel Monkeys are omnivores eating primarily fruits and insects. Occasionally though they eat seeds, leaves, flowers, buds, nuts and eggs.

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