Cotton-top Tamarin

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Scientific name: Saguinus oedipus

Class: Mammals

Continent: Africa

Habitat: Tropical forest

Diet: Herbivorous

Weight: Up to 13.6 kg

Size: Up to 66 cm (body)

These very distinctive small primates are extremely vocal. They use almost 40 different sounds to communicate with each other and their young. They have 1 or 2 offspring per year and can live up to 15 in the wild and 25 in captivity. Natural predators include hawks and snakes.

However, one of the biggest threats to the survival of this critically endangered species is the pet trade. Due to their small size and “cuteness”, they are thought to be the ideal primate pet. In 2014, two cotton-tops were stolen in a targeted raid on the Zoo. Fortunately, they were found and returned but the 3 month old baby of one of the pair was lost.

They do need very specialist care and a controlled diet, so do not make good pets. Their diet at the Zoo comprises fruit, vegetables, seeds and marmoset jelly. Special treats include rice and mealworms.

Conservation status

Extinct

Extinct in the wild

Critically endangered

Endangered

Vulnerable

Near threatened

Least concern

Insufficient data

Not evaluated

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