Habitat:

The Golden lion tamarins are endemic to south-eastern Brazil. Golden lion tamarins inhabit forest sub-canopy, typically 5 - 20 feet of the ground. Overall, the preferred type of habitat is humid, secluded canopy, dominated by vines and having arboreal pathways. Other suitable types of habitat include cultivated land and secondary re-growth forest.

Description:

Golden Lion Tamarins are most widely known for their bright vibrant colour and their mane like hair around their neck resembling a lion. They are a red-golden colour all over with the exception of their face and feet and hands which are grey/black in appearance. The Golden Lion Tamarin weighs in at 400 to 800 g at maturity and grows to about 19-22 cm but has a remarkable tail that is longer than their body at 40 cm.

Status:

Endangered

Interesting facts:

• Golden Lion Tamarins get their name from exhibiting a magnificent ring of hair that shines in the sun, resembling an elegant lion mane.
• The Golden Lion Tamarin is currently one of the national symbols of Brazil.
• Golden Lion Tamarins have thumbs on their front feet, which aren't fully opposable. Additionally, halluces of these monkeys exhibit flat nails and are located back from all other digits.
• Diet: A Golden Lion Tamarin eats a variety of plant-based foods, small insects and invertebrates. But their preferred foods—flowers, nectar, fruits and gums—can be found in the mid-to-high canopy.
• Group Structure: These primates form small family units of 2 - 8 individuals, typically consisting of a breeding pair with their young of one or two litters as well as other related animals.
• Reproduction: Golden Lion Tamarins have a monogamous mating system with a single breeding pair in each group. Males are reproductively mature at around 2 years old, whereas females are ready to mate at 1.5 years of age.
• Gestation period: Gestation period lasts for 130 - 135 days, producing two infants, born with open eyes. The infants are generally cared for by their father, although all members of the group participate in rearing the young. Nursing period lasts for about 90 days .
• Lifespan: Golden Lion Tamarins live for 15 to 25 years
• Threats: Deforestation & the illegal pet trade.