The rare small mammals were born at the zoo in July. This was one of
only three litters born this year at zoos accredited by the
Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Zoo curator Jonathan Reding is
the vice coordinator for the Species Survival Program for northern
tree shrews. Resembling long-nosed squirrels, northern tree shrews are
physically similar to some of the earliest mammals. The species is
native to Southeast Asia.
The young animals learn to be independent at a quick pace. Mother
tree shrews spend only 25 minutes total with their young for the
first four weeks after the litter is born.
The northern tree shrews are on exhibit in the Katthoefer Animal
Building at Miller Park Zoo.
[Text from
Miller Park Zoo file received from
Bloomington Parks & Recreation] |