COPPERY TITI MONKEY (Plecturocebus cupreus)

  • Height: 28 – 36 cm
  • Weight: 800 g – 1.4 kg
  • Best season: All year
  • Sightings: 70%

The coppery titi monkey is a medium-sized primate native to the Amazon rainforest of Peru and Brazil. Known for its distinct copper-colored fur, this species of titi monkey is arboreal and highly social, with a strong pair bond between mates. It is a fascinating species due to its monogamous nature and dependence on dense forest habitats.

In the Tamshiyacu – Tahuayo Communal Reserve this specie of primates is spotted as we do jungle excursions around the area.

HABITAT

Found in the rainforests of the western Amazon, particularly in lowland forests along the Amazon and Javari rivers in Brazil and Peru.

Prefers dense, undisturbed primary forests, typically in areas with dense vegetation that provide cover and food sources.

Frugivorous and florivorous diet

Primarily feeds on a variety of fruits, leaves, and flowers, though they may occasionally consume insects. Their diet also includes nectar, and they play a role in pollination as they feed on flowering plants.

Behavior

Social Structure: Coppery titi monkeys are known for their strong monogamous bonds. Typically, a pair consists of a male and a female, with offspring staying with their parents until they are old enough to establish their own territories.

Territorial

They are territorial animals, with families marking their territories using scent and vocalizations.

Communication

They communicate with high-pitched calls and vocal duets between the male and female, which help reinforce their bond.

Activity

They are diurnal (active during the day) and spend most of their time in the forest canopy.

Reproduction

Coppery titi monkeys typically give birth to one offspring at a time.

The male plays an active role in raising the young, carrying the infant on its back while the female forages for food. The young are weaned at around 6–8 months and stay with their parents for up to 2 years before becoming independent.

Ecological Role

Seed Dispersal: Their diet of fruits helps in seed dispersal, which plays a key role in maintaining forest health and promoting regeneration.

Pollination: As they feed on nectar, they assist in the pollination of various plants and contribute to the biodiversity of their habitat.

Cultural and Ecological Importance

Indicator Species: As a species dependent on pristine forest ecosystems, the coppery titi monkey serves as an indicator of the health of the Amazon rainforest.

Conservation Symbol: Due to its endangered status, it has become a symbol of the broader conservation efforts needed to protect the Amazon’s rich biodiversity.

CONSERVATION STATUS
  • IUCN Status: Endangered (EN)
  • The coppery titi monkey faces significant threats from deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and illegal hunting. Their limited distribution and dependence on primary forest habitats have made them particularly vulnerable to the destruction of the Amazon rainforest.