On October 9, first-time mum Jai gave birth to the female baby, the first born at the zoo in 16 years.

Jai is one of two females transferred to the zoo from Auckland in 2015, and keepers had noticed her condition changing in the lead-up to the as-yet-unnamed baby’s birth.

“We were very excited to witness the birth, following a seven-and-a-half-month gestation period,” keeper Sasha Brook said.

“The delivery was very smooth, and Jai has been taking wonderful care of the baby. She has been showing strong maternal behaviours and is quite protective of her newborn.

“The rest of the troop has been visibly curious about the baby, but have also been respectful of Jai, and keep their distance when necessary.

“Once the baby is older we expect to see alloparenting, whereby other individuals will help with parenting duties. This is common behaviour amongst primates.”