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Golden Headed Lion Tamarin
Leontopithecus chrysomelas
Status: Endangered
Geographic Region
Golden-headed lion tamarins are found only in Brazil.
Habitat
Forest
Physical Description
The physical appearance of golden-headed lion tamarins are similar to other species of tamarins. It has relatively large canines with a small head and body. It is mostly black with a thick, long, golden mane. Males and females are quite similar in appearance.
Reproduction
In tamarin society, males and females mate for life and take equal part in raising their young. They are seasonal breeders. Breeding occurs mostly during the warm and wet season, September through March.
Diet: Omnivore
Golden-headed lion tamarins are primarily insectivorous. However, they have been known to eat invertebrates such as spiders and snails. There are also records of this species eating lizards, bird eggs, and even small birds.
Behavior
Golden-headed lion tamarins are diurnal and spend most of their time in tropical forests at heights of three to ten meters. They do not even come down to sleep at night. They sleep in tree holes, vines, or epiphytes. Also, they live in family groups of two to eight individuals, with an average size of three to four individuals, however they may form temporary associations of 15 to 16. Adults of the same sex are very aggressive toward one another for territorial defense purposes. Vocalizations among golden-headed lion tamarins are based on activity and behavior. Trills are used when activity is solitary. Clucks can be heard while an animal is foraging. Long calls indicate vigilance.
Sources: IUCN 2009. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2009.2. 2009, December.
Lundrigan, B. and K. Kapheim. 2000. "Leontopithecus chrysomelas" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. Accessed December 08, 2009.
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