Little Falls Pine Grove Zoo Adds Squirrel Monkeys To Zoo Family

Pine Grove Zoo is one of my favorite places to spend a day in Central Minnesota. What makes this zoo so great is the fact that they are constantly growing and adding to their zoo family.

Last year Pine Grove added a new river otter exhibit and three new otters, Ted, Dave, and Dewey. They also welcomed a couple of baby porcupines, Morris and Eugene. Before that, they added a couple of red kangaroos, and this year they are welcoming two new squirrel monkeys.

Max and Carly the squirrel monkeys arrived in Little Falls on June 2nd, and Pine Grove reported that they are adapting well to their new home. They said they would post photos of the new additions soon once they are more settled.

Squirrel monkeys live in the tropical forests of Central and South America in the canopy layer of trees. The common squirrel monkey is captured for the pet trade and for medical research but it is not threatened. Two squirrel monkey species are threatened though, the Central American squirrel monkey and the black squirrel monkey are listed as vulnerable by the IUCN. Squirrel monkeys can live in groups of up to 500, and are omnivores eating mostly insects and fruits.

Every animal at Pine Grove Zoo lives there year-round. The focus of Pine Grove is to provide exceptional care for their animals, teach visitors about care and conservation and create a fun atmosphere to visit. It is one of Minnesota's oldest zoos and makes a great summer family outing.

They are hoping to open on June 15th in accordance with the phased opening of Minnesota businesses put in place by Governor Walz.