Love is in the air as pygmy marmoset Tumble arrives at Shaldon Wildlife Trust

Shaldon Wildlife Trust is celebrating a very small but very special love story this Valentine’s season with the arrival of a new female pygmy marmoset named Tumble from Dudley Zoo. Her move forms part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) breeding programme and marks the beginning of a hopeful new partnership with resident male, Pablo.

Pygmy marmosets are the world’s smallest monkeys, weighing just over 100 grams, yet they play an important role in their rainforest ecosystems in South America. In the wild, they face increasing threats from habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade, making international conservation breeding programmes vital for securing their future. Tumble’s arrival supports these efforts while bringing a heart-warming new chapter to Shaldon Wildlife Trust.

Animal care staff have been carefully introducing Tumble and Pablo, and early signs suggest the pairing is progressing well. Both marmosets have been observed exploring their habitat, communicating with one another, and sharing favourite feeding spots — all positive signs that this Valentine’s match could blossom into something special.

“We couldn’t have timed Tumble’s arrival better,” said Zak Showell, Director of Shaldon Wildlife Trust. “With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it feels like the perfect moment to welcome her and introduce her to Pablo. She’s confident, curious and already winning hearts — including his.”

Tumble was born at Dudley Zoo and has been recommended for transfer following careful genetic planning by the EAZA breeding programme coordinator. Pairing her with Pablo will help maintain a healthy, sustainable captive population and supports the long-term conservation of the species. If successful, staff are hopeful babies will be on the horizon.

Visitors to the Trust may spot the new couple nestled together among branches, darting through foliage, or pausing to groom one another — key bonding behaviours for this social species. The Trust’s staff continues to monitor their progress while allowing them the space to form their own relationship naturally.

Shaldon Wildlife Trust is dedicated to conservation, education and animal welfare, working alongside international partners to protect threatened species and inspire the public to care for wildlife. The arrival of Tumble highlights the importance of collaboration between zoological organisations and demonstrates how even the smallest animals can make a big impact in global conservation efforts.

Guests are invited to visit Shaldon Wildlife Trust this February to meet Tumble and Pablo and discover more about pygmy marmosets and the Trust’s vital conservation work.