It's all "monkey business" at Edmonton's Valley Zoo this week.

That's because there's a new arrival at the facility -- another squirrel monkey. It's seemingly becoming an annual event at the zoo.

"We already had six squirrel monkeys here at the zoo, and this is the seventh one," says zookeeper Estefani Fujitia. "Mia is a really good mother. It seems every year, she has a baby."

Squirrel monkeys are native to forested areas of Central and South America. They are part of the largest monkey group in the world. A key trait is their agility and ability to jump from tree to tree.

Fujita says those visiting the zoo can witness the care mother and baby show. But, be forewarned -- "Mia" and her newborn, who have yet to be named, do have a place to get some privacy so timing is key.

In the meantime, Fujita says staff at the zoo will becoming a close eye on the health of the baby and its ability to adapt to its siblings and surroundings.(bp, ccg)

On the Net:
Edmonton.ca: Zoo Welcomes Baby Squirrel Monkey

ValleyZoo.ca