Squirrel Monkey
Saimiri sciureus
Also known as: Common Squirrel Monkey
Squirrel Monkeys are small, agile primates inhabiting the tropical rainforest canopies of Central and South America. They live in large, active troops that can number up to 500 individuals, communicating with a diverse range of chirps and squeaks. Unlike many other New World monkeys, their long tails are used primarily for balance rather than gripping branches as they leap through the trees.
Squirrel Monkey Quick Facts
Frequently Asked Questions About the Squirrel Monkey
Squirrel Monkeys use several scent-based behaviours, including rubbing their bodies on surfaces and urine washing, where urine is spread onto the hands and feet. Researchers studying Saimiri sciureus have found that smell plays an important role in social and reproductive communication, especially during the breeding season.
The Squirrel Monkey can be found in Central and South America and is most often associated with Tropical forests.
The Squirrel Monkey feeds on Fruits, insects, small vertebrates and is considered a omnivore.
The Squirrel Monkey is currently listed as Least Concern, with a decreasing population trend. Main threats include Deforestation, Illegal pet trade, Agriculture.
The Squirrel Monkey is usually large multi-male/multi-female troops.
The Squirrel Monkey is typically diurnal.
The Squirrel Monkey is resident.
The main threats facing the Squirrel Monkey include Deforestation, Illegal pet trade, and Agriculture.
The Squirrel Monkey population trend is currently decreasing.
Well-known places to look for the Squirrel Monkey include Amazon Rainforest (Brazil) and Manu National Park (Peru).
Natural predators of the Squirrel Monkey include Harpy eagles, Snakes, and Small felids.
Used extensively in biomedical research and as popular zoo animals.
The Squirrel Monkey is part of the Cebidae family and a Primates order.
The Squirrel Monkey weighs about 0.95 kg, stands around 30 cm tall, and reaches about 30 cm in length.
The Squirrel Monkey can reach speeds of around 35 km/h.
