CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WTVF) — The Chattanooga Zoo recently welcomed two very special animals that are known to be critically endangered. The zoo is celebrating the birth of Pied Tamarins.
The primates are only found in a small area of the Brazilian Rainforest and have been considered endangered because of habitat destruction as a nearby port city expands. Unfortunately, this means they could go extinct in a matter of decades.
Having the birth is very special for Chattanooga as they're one of six zoos with this species, giving them around 25% of the U.S. pied tamarin population.
Their parents names are Daphne and Dudley and Zoo staff members want your help to name the babies. They've narrowed down potential names to three pairs: Appa & Momo, Apple & Cherry or Merry & Pippin
The winner will be announced in mid-November. A link to vote can be found here.

“I’ve never met anyone like Tennie.”
That’s how one neighbor at Stones River Manor in Murfreesboro describes Tennie Fitzpatrick, who has mastered as many as seven different musical instruments. Each day, Tennie shares those talents with residents, workers and visitors. It’s an ability Tennie herself believes is “a gift from God.” That’s because Tennie is blind, and overcame a difficult, abusive childhood. Forrest Sanders shares this truly inspirational story.
- Rhori Johnston