Habitat

Tropical forest, near rivers.

Wild Diet

Fruit, insects, spiders, small birds and eggs. It feeds on the sap of trees by gnawing at the bark.

Behaviour

The pygmy marmoset is one of the world's smallest primates. They live in troops of 5 -10 with the females being dominant. They are active during the day and live mainly in the crowns of fairly small trees. A marmoset threatens intruders by raising its tail to display its genitals.

Breeding

Two youngsters are born after a gestation of 136 days. The father helps to carry the young from birth.

Threats

Habitat destruction and collection for the pet trade.

Conservation

European captive population is monitored by the Primate TAG.