Golden-headed Lion Tamarin

More Information

Physical Description

Golden-headed lion tamarins are small primates named for the bright-gold mane around their head, which contrasts sharply with their dark body. They spend almost all their time in the rainforest canopy, where they feed primarily on fruit and insects. Golden-headed lion tamarins live in groups consisting of a breeding pair and their young offspring. Individuals communicate with vocalizations as they forage for food.

Interesting Fact 1

Golden-headed lion tamarins consume indegestible fruit seeds and then re-deposit them in new locations during defecation, which helps plants spread across the rainfoest.

Interesting Fact 2

Adults are territorial and will attempt to drive other tamarins away by raising their mane and fluffing their coat to appear larger.

Interesting Fact 3

They use long calls to bond with other tamarins, clicks to signal foraging, and whines to make contact with new individuals.