Black Tufted-ear Marmoset
Order: Primates
Family: Callitrichidae
Genus: Callithrix
Species: kuhlii
Range & Habitat
They live in the tropical and subtropical forests of South America and in the forests and forest patches of Brazil's savannahs.
Reproduction & Growth
Their gestation period is 150-160 days. The male helps in carrying the young 7-10 days after birth. The young become independent in 2 1/2 months. The whole group takes part in carrying the young and surrendering food morsels to the baby, the breeding females and infant carriers.
Diet
In the wild: Tree sap, insects, spiders, fruit, flowers and nectar, small lizards, bird's eggs, nestlings and frogs
In the Zoo: Bananas, apples, oranges, eggs, kale, cooked carrot or yams, monkey biscuits, grapes, raisins, cantaloupe and mealworms
General Information
They have non-opposable thumbs and nails that are claw-like, as well as acute eyesight, good hearing and good smell. They are diurnal and generally live in groups of 4-15 individuals, which may include mated polyandrous groups, (one female mates with multiple males), and their
offspring. The most outstanding feature of marmoset behavior is nonmaternal infant care (also found in other callitrichid primates). Males and siblings are quick to assist mother marmosets with infant care; it appears that this help is necessary for infant survival. They are rare throughout their range. Slash and burn agriculture has destroyed much of their habitat.
In the Zoo
Currently at the zoo we have three Black Tufted-ear Marmosets, two
males and one female.
Click here to learn about Animal Care.
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