Checking in with North America’s only zoological population of drill monkeys

Did you know that Zoo Atlanta is the only zoo in North America housing drill monkeys?

Currently, we have one male, Enwe, and two females, Achi and Amaka. However, I can’t talk about how amazing our drill monkeys are without a little history lesson. Our monkey habitats were built in 1990; building took nine months to complete. In 1991 they were nominated for the Exhibit Award by the AAZPA (now the Association of Zoos and Aquariums). Our habitats were considered state of the art then, and now decades later, they continue to be. Zoo Atlanta is one of the few facilities that house different species of Afro-Eurasian monkeys in the same habitat. Just recently we housed three different monkey species together!

In 1993, two drill monkeys arrived at Zoo Atlanta from Europe. One of these was a female, Inge; she was with us until her passing in 2020. She had 11 offspring born here at Zoo Atlanta; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren housed around the world. Two of her daughters returned to Europe and have continued the legacy. Inge was the most amazing animal I have ever worked with, and working with her descendants to this day is such a magical opportunity.

Just this past March, we lost one of our drills, Drew, who would have turned 28 later this year. She was Inge’s daughter, Amaka’s mother, and thus Achi and Enwe’s sister. Drew’s longevity is a testament to the care all the animals here at Zoo Atlanta receive. Thanks to the new Rollins Animal Health Center, more advanced imaging and laboratory testing can be completed here on Zoo grounds. With this new advancement we could more easily monitor and treat Drew’s diabetes and her spondylosis (arthritis of the spine). Thanks to these advancements, we ensured her golden years were spent as happy and healthy as they could be. Drew was a spitfire until the end. She loved training sessions with keepers, exploring enrichment, and spending time with her sister Achi on the rocks of the habitat. 

Our three drills currently at Zoo Atlanta are all considered geriatric. While Inge lived until she was 33, and the oldest drill monkey on record was 46, the average lifespan is 20 years. Enwe and Amaka are both 23, and Achi is 25 this year. Knowing this, we treasure every moment we get to spend learning from these amazing animals.

Each monkey has their own distinct personality, likes, and dislikes. Enwe is our handsome male. He lets you know when he’s not impressed, while also using his smile to get us to do what he wants. Let me tell you, the first time Enwe smiles at you, your heart melts. Amaka is nicknamed the ninja. She is fast and feisty. She loves learning new behaviors during training sessions. Achi is stubborn and knows what she wants. If she trusts you, she will show you her true sweet self; if she doesn’t, she’s a closed book.  

Working with the drills at Zoo Atlanta has made me passionate about these lesser-known creatures. Zoo Atlanta supports wild drill monkeys by generously supporting Pan African Sanctuary Alliance (PASA). PASA is an organization that has 23 sanctuaries in 13 countries. Their description of their organization is “PASA is the largest association of wildlife centers in Africa, providing long-term care for more than 3,400 great apes and monkeys who were rescued from the illegal wildlife trade and other forms of abuse.” Learn more about this wonderful organization at www.pasa.org

By visiting Zoo Atlanta, you are helping conservation efforts around the world, including efforts protecting wild drill monkeys!  

Now that you know a bit more about why they’re so special, be sure to stop by and appreciate the drills next time you’re here!

Pam M.
Small Primate Team

(photos: Small Primate Team)