Collins' Squirrel Monkey (Saimiri collinsi) lives in tropical rainforest across South America. It feeds on fruits and insects. Its conservation status is Least Concern.
Fascinating facts about the Collins' Squirrel Monkey
- For decades scientists lumped Collins' squirrel monkeys under the common squirrel monkey, but a genetic study by Jessica Lynch Alfaro and colleagues proved they are a separate species. By comparing DNA sequences, the researchers showed enough genetic distance to merit full species status.
- A survey of 511 fecal samples from captive New World primates found that 10.6 % harbored parabasilid protozoa, and the parasite list included genera such as Saimiri. This shows that even healthy-looking monkeys can carry hidden gut infections that sometimes jump to their human caretakers.
- Male Collins' squirrel monkeys stretch about 38 cm (15 in) from nose to rump and sport a 37.6 cm (14.8 in) tail, while females are much shorter at roughly 27 cm (11 in) body length but carry a longer 41.3 cm (16.3 in) tail.
- Collins' squirrel monkeys snack on palm fruits, legumes, insects, bird eggs and even the occasional lizard, giving them a menu as varied as a rainforest buffet. Eating both plant matter and animal protein.
At a glance
RangeSouth America
HabitatTropical rainforest
DietFruits and insects
About the Collins' Squirrel Monkey
In the lush canopy of the Amazonian rainforest, the Collins' Squirrel Monkey dances through the trees with an effortless elegance, its slender fingers and toes barely touching the branches as it leaps from limb to limb. With eyes shining like bright jewels, this diminutive primate navigates its domain with a fearless abandon, chasing after insects and fruits with a playful zeal that is as captivating as it is contagious. As it moves, the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves above casts a mesmerizing glow on its soft, grey fur, rendering this tiny creature a true marvel of the tropical wilderness.
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