Black howler monkey baby born at the Buffalo Zoo

“Howl” would you like to meet the newest addition to M&T Bank Rainforest Falls?

The Buffalo Zoo is thrilled to share that we welcomed a black howler monkey baby to the world on April 20, 2026. Born to first-time mom Rio (7) and first-time dad Tater (8), the infant is doing incredibly well in their care and can now be seen on habitat regularly!

It marks another exciting addition to M&T Bank Rainforest Falls, and a powerful example of conservation at work.

Black howler monkey mothers are known to provide incredibly attentive care for their infants, and Rio has been no different.

Keepers have observed her constantly carrying her baby and exhibiting strong maternal instincts when it comes to feeding them.

While Rio directly cares for the baby, Tater has been keeping a watchful eye on them both, and was even spotted grooming the baby!

Black howler monkeys are currently listed as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, making this birth an incredibly positive development to ensure the survival of the species. Population declines are largely due to habitat loss, hunting pressures and vulnerability to disease outbreaks.

The species is recognized for its well-known “howl”, a powerful, loud vocalization that can be heard from over a mile away. While our baby howler monkey is still getting the hang of it, keepers did observe him vocalizing recently, which is surely a sign of things to come!

Stay tuned to Buffalo Zoo social medias for updates on the baby’s public debut, as well as any naming news.

You can purchase your Buffalo Zoo tickets to see our baby black howler monkey here.