Common Marmoset
Callithrix jacchus
Class: Mammalia Order: Primates Family: Cebidae
Size
Weight: 0.5-1 lb
Diet
Fruit, leaves, flowers, seeds, nectar, eggs, insects, and small vertebrates
Lifespan
Lifespan (Wild): 10 years
Lifespan (Captivity): 14 years
Habitat & Range
Habitat: Edges of forests in Brazil
Interesting Facts
Common marmosets are very small monkeys found in northern Brazil. Their name comes from the French word “marmouset” which translates to “dwarf”.
They are arboreal and spend most of their time in the trees. Marmosets have claw-like nails that allow them to cling to trees and climb like squirrels. They can climb vertically as well as run and leap across branches.
Marmosets have long lower incisors that let them gnaw tree bark and then lick or scoop the sap that the tree produces. This is their primary source of food along with plants, fruits seeds and small animals.
Marmosets communicate vocally and visually through facial expressions. For example, they have an alarm call to alert the rest of the troop when potential danger is nearby. Due to their diminutive size, they are vulnerable to many predators.
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Threats
Common marmosets are widespread, however they are threatened by loss of habitat.
