Older animals are usually more vulnerable to weather changes. To anticipate the possible drop in temperatures, which is expected in the following days, Terra Natura Benidorm has activated the protocol against the cold and we have begun to implement specific measures to ensure the welfare of the animals, especially the older ones, which are the most affected by variations in the weather.

In the case of Ojito, a Saimiri (Saimiri boliviensis) who arrived at Terra Natura Benidorm from a zoo in Holland in 2007 when he was three years old, the administration of vitamin C and his diet is controlled, offering food with a higher protein value. In addition, his mood and physical condition are closely monitored. To help with the effects of the cold temperatures when night falls, the heating system in Ojito’s indoor facilities has been activated.

This saimiri is now 18 years old, an age that is considered advanced for the species. In Ojito’s case, he has lost some teeth and has problems with his coat too. Because of his age, he is monitored daily to make sure he is well, both physically and emotionally.

As he is less active, his coat deteriorates, so he often visits the veterinary clinic to give him a bath and keep his coat in good condition. His diet is checked daily and he is given a porridge with nutritional supplements, as well as soft fruit and vegetables so that he can digest it without any problems.

Saimiri are extremely sociable animals, so as soon as Ojito has been “tuned up” and his appetite is checked, he returns to the facility with the rest of his group. This species is not endangered.

These primates are able to use their tails as a tool to stabilise themselves during their acrobatic jumps from branch to branch. Their use as pets puts them in the sights of animal traffickers for illegal sale. “Despite their friendly appearance, they can behave aggressively towards humans and require a very demanding environment for their well-being, so they are not suitable to live in a home as pets”.