Welcome, Booker!

Our black howler troop welcomed a new addition! Booker the howler monkey has recently joined our Rainforest Revealed loop as the newest howler monkey at our Zoo. 

We recently parted ways with our former black howler monkey resident Baya along with her sons Buster, Bruno and Banjo as they journeyed to their new homes at another Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)-accredited organization.  

This move was all a part of AZA’s Species Survival Plan (SSP) for black howler monkeys to ensure we have a genetically diverse population of the species in AZA-accredited organizations. In accordance with this SSP, Booker has now joined our current black howler monkey residents, so that Booker can be paired with our male Reggie. 

Since her arrival, the 11-year-old monkey has quickly adjusted to her new home. With an eager and curious personality, she’s warmed up nicely to her new habitat-mates and keepers. Booker and Raina, our other female howler monkey, are still a bit cautious around each other, but they’re slowly becoming friends. Reggie, on the other hand, is the apple of Booker’s eye!  

Booker (left) and Reggie (right) have been attached at the hip.

“As soon as the two [Booker and Reggie] were introduced, she was all up in his business, trying to woo him, and get his attention,” said Rainforest Revealed Area Supervisor Grace Scott.  

When she’s not following Reggie around, Booker can be found exploring her new habitat or munching on her favorite snacks, including peanuts, apple chunks, canned primate diet food and hard-boiled eggs! 

Booker has darker fur compared to Raina, who has blonde fur.

“Booker has a great disposition,” Grace continued. “She’s a very confident and sweet howler!” 

The next time you pass by our Rainforest Revealed loop, keep your eyes peeled for Booker (hint: she’s probably next to Reggie)! 

Brevard Zoo is an independent, not-for-profit organization that receives no recurring government funding for our operating costs. Your generous support enables us to continue to serve our community and continue our vital animal wellness, education and conservation programs.