Love blossoms as pygmy marmoset Tumble arrives at Shaldon Wildlife Trust

Shaldon Wildlife Trust is celebrating a tiny but significant new arrival this Valentine’s season with the transfer of a female pygmy marmoset named Tumble from Dudley Zoo.

Tumble’s move is part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) breeding programme and marks the start of a hoped-for partnership with the Trust’s resident male marmoset, Pablo.

Pygmy marmosets are the smallest monkeys in the world, weighing just over 100 grams. Native to the rainforests of South America, they play an important ecological role but face growing threats from habitat loss and the illegal wildlife trade. Conservation breeding programmes across Europe aim to safeguard the species’ long-term future.

Animal care staff at Shaldon have been gradually introducing Tumble and Pablo, with early signs suggesting the match is progressing positively. The pair have been seen exploring their enclosure, communicating and sharing feeding areas — behaviours staff say are encouraging indicators of compatibility.

“We couldn’t have timed Tumble’s arrival better,” said Zak Showell, Director of Shaldon Wildlife Trust. “With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it feels like the perfect moment to welcome her and introduce her to Pablo. She’s confident, curious and already winning hearts — including his.”

Tumble was born at Dudley Zoo and was recommended for transfer following genetic planning by the EAZA breeding programme coordinator. Pairing her with Pablo is intended to help maintain a healthy and sustainable captive population, supporting the species’ long-term conservation. If the partnership proves successful, staff hope the pair may produce offspring in the future.

Visitors may catch a glimpse of the marmosets perched among branches, moving swiftly through foliage or grooming one another — important bonding behaviours for the highly social primates. Staff will continue to monitor their progress while allowing the pair to establish their relationship naturally.

Shaldon Wildlife Trust works with international partners on conservation, education and animal welfare initiatives aimed at protecting threatened species and inspiring greater public awareness. The arrival of Tumble, the Trust says, underlines the value of collaboration between zoological organisations and highlights how even the smallest animals can play a significant role in global conservation efforts.

Members of the public are invited to visit the Trust this February to see Tumble and Pablo and learn more about pygmy marmosets and the organisation’s conservation work.