WATCH: Wild Ireland's new baby Barbary macaque monkey comes out to play under watchful eye of family

The wildlife sanctuary, set in Dundrain, Burnfoot on the Derry/Donegal border, was thrilled to announce the birth of the baby Barbary macaque – an endangered species of monkey native to the Atlas Mountains of North Africa and the Rock of Gibraltar.

The Barbary macaque is the only primate species found wild in Europe and is known for its distinctive appearance, characterised by a robust body, a vey short tail, and golden fur. Their apparent lack of a tail has earned them the nickname of the Barbary ape.

Unfortunately, this species is critically endangered due to habitat loss and the cruel practices of poaching for the illegal wildlife trade.

The Macaque Family at Wild Ireland also includes mum, Sandy, dad Azon, big sister: Ellie and grandma Judith

The newest addition to this remarkable family is a yet-to-be-named baby.

Wild Ireland still doesn’t know if it’s a boy or a girl as mum is keeping the baby very close to her chest. They are welcoming suggestions for this precious addition to their Barbary macaque family.

The Journal visited Wild Ireland this week to see if we could get a peek at the new baby. While mammy Sandy was keeping the new addition very close, she let it go for a little while to enjoy some play and learning time.

The animated and happy little monkey jumped and swung from branches with its big sister.

Big sister Ellie is excited to play with the new baby, but Mum and Dad are understandably protective. Thankfully, Grandma Judy is more than happy to keep Ellie entertained. when Mum needs a break, she cares for the baby as well, ensuring Sandy gets some well-deserved rest.

Dad Azzie is a shining example of modern dad. Barbary macaques exhibit a behaviour known as "alloparenting" where all the males in the tripe look after the young, whether they are related to them or not.

Azon can often be seen carrying both babies, showcasing the strong family bonds these primates form.

The Barbary macaque family spend their days on a large, natural island, and they eagerly anticipate welcoming visitors over the upcoming midterm break.

Killian McLaughlin of Wild Ireland told the Journal how the new addition is proving a real hit with visitors, who are all eager to get a glimpse of the family.

The birth of this Barbary macaque at Wild Ireland is not just a local event; it also holds much international significance in the fight to protect this endangered species.

You can visit the new baby and the rest of the family over the Halloween mid term holidays.

Wild Ireland is open everyday from 10am and will also be open throughout Autumn and winter. Additionally, tickets are already selling fast for the Christmas Wild Artic Experience and everyone is encouraged to book these well in advance.

For more information, please visit www.wildireland.org or see Wild Ireland on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=wild%20ireland