Squirrel Monkeys

Squirrel monkeys live in the tropical forests of Central and South America in the canopy layer. Unlike the other New World monkeys, their tail is not used for climbing, but as a kind of "balancing pole" and also as a tool. Their movements in the branches can be very rapid.

They live together in multi-male/multi-female groups with up to 500 members. These large groups can, however occasionally break into smaller troops. They have a number of vocal calls, including warning sounds to protect themselves from large falcons, which are a natural threat to them. Their small body size also makes them susceptible to predators such as snakes and felids. For marking territory, squirrel monkeys rub their tail and their skin with their own urine.

Squirrel monkeys are omnivores, eating primarily fruits and insects. Occasionally they also eat seeds, leaves, flowers, buds, nuts, eggs and small vertebrates.

Bolivian Squirrel Monkeys

    Scientific Name: Saimiri boliviensis
Bolivian Squirrel Monkeys

Squirrel monkeys live in the tropical forests of Central and South America. >>

 

Common Squirrel Monkeys

    Scientific Name: Saimiri scuireus
Common Squirrel Monkeys

Their range extends from Costa Rica through central Brazil and Bolivia. >>