Sydney Zoo baby boom welcomes lemur, meerkats and capybaras

The population of Sydney Zoo is growing in numbers and cuteness as the lemurs, meerkats, squirrel monkeys and capybaras welcome new additions.

Sydney Zoo is breaking records and melting hearts, as the animal sanctuary experiences an unprecedented baby boom among some of its most iconic and exotic animals.

And while the little cuties delight crowds they are also a vital part of the survival of species often at risk in the wild.

Sydney Zoo spokeswoman Natasha Budinski said their baby lemur, Zakou, had become the absolute favourite attraction for zoo-goers, and was already displaying a lot of ­personality.

Baby lemur Zakou is a zoo crowd favourite. Picture: Tim Hunter

Zakou loves doing zoomies — but always heads back to the safety of mum. Picture: Tim Hunter

“We’ve seen him come off his mum’s back earlier than expected, which shows he’s really confident,” she said.

“He’s been doing zoomies all around the habitat too, so all of the guests outside have been screaming with laughter.”

This koala joey has a good look around. Picture: Tim Hunter

This squirrel monkey hitches a ride with mum. Picture: Tim Hunter

Jumping from tree, to rock, to mum and dad at a frantic pace, Zakou’s confidence could prove to be a significant step towards the future for a species that has fewer than 2000 animals remaining in Madagascar.

Zakou is not the only new life stealing the show at the zoo, which has also seen the recent addition of five baby capybaras, a species that has exploded in popularity over recent years after becoming an online sensation.

The baby meerkats hear that dinner’s on its way. Picture: Tim Hunter

The baby capybaras chow down on some leaves. Picture: Tim Hunter

“The capybara babies are currently learning to swim with their dad, which has also been an adorable watch,” said Ms Budinksi.

The zoo is also home at the moment to a baby koala and squirrel monkey and baby meerkats.

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Originally published as Sydney Zoo baby boom welcomes lemur, meerkats and capybaras