When we talk about Titi monkey, we must understand that we are actually talking about around 40 species. Smart and charismatic, they easily win people's hearts. That is why here we will explain everything about this incredible primate.
Characteristics of the Titi Monkey
The first thing we need to know about monkey features marmoset, is that all of them are very small. However, its size and weight varies between 100 gr. -where the pygmy marmoset monkey is located- and the 800 gr., where the golden lion tamarin stands out.
Despite the differences already described, there are many similarities. One of them is that the vast majority of marmosets have two molars.
In addition, all of them (remember that there are about 40 species) have an opposable thumb, similar to that of humans, which allows them to better grasp things. Its tail is not prehensile.
An important difference that distinguishes them from most primates is that they have claws instead of nails, so be very careful with these angelic-looking creatures.
Their differences
The different species of marmoset monkey differ not only in size. They also have other highly differentiated features. In such a way that the best known of these popular little creatures is the common marmoset, which has very furry white ears and an ashy or grayish body.
This monkey is a creature of extraordinary beauty and intelligence, which can well compete with the genius of the jungles of this part of the world, his cousin the Capuchin monkey.
The common marmoset (callithrix jacchus), also known as the white-brushed marmoset in allusion to its furry ears, unfortunately it is one of those preferred by illegal traffic.
This striking species can live in herds of more than 20 individuals. They even come to live with another species, such is the case of their cousin with black brushes (ears).
Other relatives, such as the golden lion tamarin monkey, are of very striking colors, specifically red and ocher, so they stand out in the green foliage.
But there are also very charismatic species. Such is the case of the cotton tamarin, which has a white fringe. But it is also adorned with brown and gray tones.
Food
They are monkeys with diurnal habits, very clinging to the trees, where they spend most of their time. So much so that even their diet is closely linked to the trees.
This is because the marmoset eats fruit and leaves, although they can also feast on sap, flowers, and nectar. You may also be interested in the insects shared by jungle trees.
Behavior of the Titi Monkey
The marmoset monkey is an extremely territorial creature. They usually live in family groups of six individuals, although as we have said before there can be up to twenty of these primates in the same group.
They belong to a select group of primates that regularly give birth to twins.
In all the families of these monkeys, the males play the important role of protectors of the little ones. Although it is known that they also help in the task of ensuring the baby marmoset monkey, older siblings from previous births.
As is often the case with other monkeys, grooming plays a very important role. This is because it helps them set and strengthen group behavior. In such a way that it does not only represent an action against parasites.
Regarding behavior, we must also say that all marmosets communicate through sounds. These monkeys emit extremely loud screeches that cut through the jungle. It is even known that they even have a primitive kind of syntax.
But they are more than screams and strange and primitive vocalizations. They can also communicate through smells. For this they spread their pheromones in the trees, by rubbing their glands against them.
Habitat
If you have questions about where does the monkey live marmoset, here we clarify them for you.
All the species of this primate inhabit the tropical jungles of Central and South America. They spend most of their time high up in the trees.
Most of these monkeys settle in the Amazon basin, mainly in its Bolivian, Colombian and Peruvian parts.
But despite its funny appearance, not all is happy in the world of the marmoset monkey. This is because their environment is being threatened by the exploitation of wood. However, its greatest danger is illegal trafficking. Which is one of the favorite creatures.
These unfortunate monkeys are poached to become pets in the old continent and the United States.
A criminal act that unfortunately facilitates the diminutive size of the victim itself. This is because they are transported inside plastic bottles, tied and gagged to prevent their cries for help. In such a way that many die asphyxiated on the trip that they never asked to do.
It is important to note that in several places it is forbidden to have captive primates, which includes our tiny monkey.
This is because, in addition to preventing illegal trafficking, despite their charming appearance, they are very noisy and spread many serious diseases.
But it's also because they can be extremely aggressive, as a result of being frightened by people because of our size. So you have to be careful because they tend to bite when they feel threatened. Oh, and do you remember what we told you about the claws? Well, yes, they are creatures of care.