Help name new Safari West baby monkey

A monkey born earlier this month at a private wildlife preserve in Sonoma County needs a name, according to preserve officials.

The baby boy patas monkey born Aug. 5 is still clinging to his mom at the Safari West preserve located at 3115 Porter Creek Road, but he’s gradually exploring the world around him and preserve officials are asking friends and guests to suggest their favorite name for the youngster.

Patas monkeys are native to Africa and spend more time on the ground than any other monkey, according to wildlife experts. They’re also the fastest of all primates, reaching speeds of up to 35 mph.

The new boy was born to mother Izzie and father Maurice, Safari West spokeswoman Aphrodite Caserta said. He has one sibling, a sister named Jasmine, who was born last year, Caserta said.

He weighs about four pounds now and will be 20 to 27 pounds when full-grown, according to Safari West’s website.

Right now he’s looking at the world around him with “big open eyes,” Caserta said.

He should be weaned in about six months, she said.

The deadline to submit a name is midnight next Monday, according to the preserve. More information about the monkey can be found at http://www.safariwest.com/name-that-monkey/ and suggestions should be emailed to namethatbaby@safariwest.com.

Safari West officials said the winning name will be announced Aug. 31 and the winner will receive a gift certificate for one adult Classic Safari trip at the preserve.

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