Bank Holiday Weekend at Yorkshire Wildlife Park: Rare Monkey Birth and Star-Studded Concerts

As the summer draws to a close, Yorkshire Wildlife Park is gearing up for a memorable Bank Holiday Weekend, blending wildlife conservation with live music. The park, spanning 175 acres in Auckley, near Doncaster, promises an exhilarating experience for visitors of all ages, with the added thrill of celebrating the birth of a rare Venezuelan Red Howler Monkey.

A weekend filled with music and wildlife wonders

This Bank Holiday, the Yorkshire Wildlife Park is pulling out all the stops with its Wild Live concert series. Music lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike can enjoy a weekend brimming with entertainment. Saturday night will feature electrifying performances by Ella Henderson, Sigala, and Jo O’Meara, while Sunday’s lineup includes the dynamic Jessie J, joined by Phats and Small.

But the excitement doesn’t end with the music. Visitors with Wild Live tickets have the unique opportunity to explore the park before heading to the concert area. The park’s diverse habitats are home to an array of rare and endangered species, including the newly born Red Howler Monkey, whose arrival marks a significant milestone in the park’s conservation efforts.

The rare red howler monkey: a new addition to the family

The birth of the Red Howler Monkey is a highlight of the park’s ongoing conservation success. The latest arrival, born in July, is the third offspring of mum Tila and dad Geronimo, following the births of Pabla in 2021 and Carlos in 2022. This birth is especially significant as it contributes to the survival of the species, which is rarely seen in captivity.

“We are delighted to welcome another baby to our Red Howler Monkey family, making this the third birth in under three years,”

said Greg Clifton, the park’s Primates Team Leader. Although it’s too early to determine the baby’s sex, both mother and child are reported to be healthy and thriving. The young monkey will continue to integrate into the troop over the coming months, adding to the vibrancy of the park’s South America area, where the Red Howler Monkeys reside alongside the Giant Anteaters.

A hub of conservation and rescue efforts

Yorkshire Wildlife Park is not just about entertainment; it is a leading force in wildlife conservation. The park made headlines earlier this year when it rescued a family of lions from war-torn Ukraine. These lions are now safe and thriving within the park’s expansive grounds. Additionally, the park recently introduced two cheetah cubs, who have begun exploring their surroundings in the Cheetah Territory alongside their mother, Darcy.

Visitors this weekend can look forward to encounters with some of the world’s most magnificent animals, including Polar Bears, Amur Leopards, Tigers, and Giraffes. The park’s dedication to the preservation of endangered species offers a rare chance to witness these animals up close, making each visit a unique and educational experience.

Preparing for the grand finale

The Wild Live concert series will conclude on a high note the following Saturday, 31st August, with a performance by the much-loved boy band JLS. This final concert is expected to draw large crowds, eager to enjoy the combination of live music and the opportunity to engage with wildlife.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park’s blend of conservation and entertainment ensures that this Bank Holiday Weekend will be one to remember. Whether you're coming for the music, the animals, or both, the park offers a unique experience that highlights the importance of wildlife conservation while providing top-tier entertainment.

Join in the thrill of the Yorkshire Wildlife Park this Bank Holiday Weekend – where wildlife meets live music in an unforgettable celebration of nature and culture.