National Parks/ Sanctuaries
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Common Names
cotton-top tamarin
Regions
Colombia
Population
2,000
Habitat
tropical rainforests and mangrove swamps of northwestern Colombia, where they rely on dense vegetation for shelter and foraging
Weight(in lbs) and Life Span
between 300 to 500 g... and 13 to 16 years in the wild
Regions
Colombia
The Cotton-top Tamarin (Saguinus oedipus) is a small monkey species found only in the tropical forests of Colombia. Known for its distinctive appearance characterized by a shock of white hair on its head, this primate species is highly social and arboreal, spending much of its time foraging and navigating the forest canopy. Despite its charismatic appeal, there is an estimated remaining population of fewer than 2,000 individuals. The primary threats to the Cotton-top Tamarin include habitat loss and fragmentation, illegal pet trade, and deforestation for agriculture. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection, community education, and rehabilitation programs to support the recovery of this critically endangered primate species.
Activity Instructions
- Draw the Animal: Use the next page to draw a picture of the animal. Use your imagination and make it colorful!
- Write an Essay: Write a short essay about the conservation efforts to save this animal. Here are some questions to guide you:
- Why is this species important in its ecosystem?
- What are the threats it faces, and how can we help?
- What do you find most interesting about this species?
