SQUIRREL MONKEYS (Saimiri sciureus)

  • Height: 25 – 35 cm
  • Weight: 750 g – 1.2 kg
  • Best season: June – October
  • Sightings: 99%

Is a small, highly social primate found in the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin. It has a distinctive yellow-orange fur on its limbs and back, with a white face and dark eyes. Known for its active and playful behavior, the squirrel monkey lives in large groups, often with a dominant female. They are omnivorous, feeding on a diet of fruits, insects, and small animals. Squirrel monkeys play a crucial role in seed dispersal and insect control within their habitat.

As we do start doing our excursion, we always spot this specie of primates. In a very large groups, more than 100 members.

Ecological Role of Squirrel Monkeys

Seed Dispersal: As frugivores, squirrel monkeys help in seed dispersal by eating fruits and spreading the seeds throughout the forest, aiding in plant regeneration.

Insect Control: Their diet includes a variety of insects, helping to control insect populations and maintain balance in the ecosystem.

Pollination: While feeding on nectar, squirrel monkeys contribute to pollination, supporting the growth and diversity of plants in the forest.

Prey for Predators: They are an important prey species for larger predators, such as birds of prey and big cats, forming an essential part of the food web. 

Forest Health Indicators: As social animals that depend on dense forest environments, squirrel monkeys serve as indicators of forest health and the stability of their ecosystem.