Tiki, a one-year-old common marmoset, arrived at Jungle Friends on July 17th after a long journey that began in Kentucky. Initially, the prospect of yet another home was overwhelming and caused him to cry constantly. He spent his first night at the sanctuary bundled in a blanket at the base of his indoor enclosure and refusing food, with the exception of applesauce!

When his caregivers felt that Tiki was ready for the next step, he was allowed into the sunshine and splendor of his outdoor habitat. As he crossed the threshold into this exciting new space, a whole new marmoset emerged. Finally, Tiki was exploring the great outdoors – it was a wonderful event to witness! Check it out on our Facebook page.

Tiki has since been socialized with another marmoset named Bessie, who arrived at Jungle Friends in June. Because Tiki had not been with another marmoset since being taken away from his mother, he was intimidated at first by this voluptuous older woman. Tiki seemed a bit uncomfortable with her attempts to groom him. The next morning, Jadie, one of our incredible interns, entered the marmosets’ indoor quarters just in time to see two sleepyheads, eyes struggling to open, emerge from inside the same hammock!

Since that initial “sleepover,” Tiki and Bessie have become a dynamic duo – they eat, drink, play and rest together. Bessie is extremely protective of young Tiki!