Description: Pygmy marmosets (Callithrix pygmaea) are tawny or agouti in color with a tail that is 1.5 times its body length. Pygmy marmosets are not sexually dimorphic.
Size: The smallest primate in the Western Hemisphere, Pygmy marmosets have a head and body length of four to six inches (10-15 cm) and weigh only 4.5 ounces (128 gr).
Behavior: Pygmy marmosets are monogamous and live in family groups containing up to four litters. These active and agile monkeys are arboreal and diurnal.
Diet: Sap and gums makes up the majority of their diet. To aid in gnawing, marmosets have long, forward turned, lower incisors. They will also eat fruit and animal prey (such as insects, small lizards, spiders).
Senses: Sight is their primary sense but they also have a well-developed sense of smell.
Communication: Along with vocalizations, Pygmy marmosets will also raise their hair (piloerection) and use facial expressions in their threat displays.
Reproduction: Twins are usually born throughout the year. Gestation lasts 119-142 days and the female will have a post partum estrous three weeks after delivery. This allows females to give birth every five to seven months.
Habitat/range: Inhabit flood plain forests near rivers of Brazil, Ecuador and Peru.
Status: IUCN Least Concern (LC). CITES Appendix II. Included in AZA Species Survival Plan®(SSP). This program cooperatively manages specific, and typically threatened or endangered populations.
