Until fairly recently there were only two species of squirrel monkey, however the genus has been now been reclassified into five species including the common squirrel monkey housed here at BCA Zoo. They are sociable animals living in troops of up to 100 individuals using a number of vocal calls, including warning sounds to communicate with others mainly about nearby threats. Their small body size makes them susceptible to predators such as large birds of prey, snakes and felids.
In Germany they are called skull monkeys as their face is black and white in a pattern resembling a skull whilst the rest of their body is covered in bright yellow fur. Their tail is not prehensile but is used for balancing as the monkeys jump through the trees.
IUCN Red List status: Least Concern
This species is listed as Least Concern, given its relatively wide range, adaptability to some degree of disturbed forest, and apparent lack of major threats. However, populations undoubtedly are declining in some areas due to forest destruction and fragmentation.
Diet
Group Name
Distribution & Habitat
Omnivore:
Squirrel monkeys spend most of their time foraging for fruit—a large part of their diet—as well as insects and other small animal prey
A Tribe, A Troop, A Barrel or A Mission
Distribution:
Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname & Venezuela
Habitat:
Forest
Fun Fact