White-faced Saki

More Information

Physical Description

White-faced sakis are small, sexually dimorphic monkeys that weigh about three to five pounds. Males have black fur surrounding their light brown faces. Females are lighter, with bright strips of hair from their eyes to chin. Both sexes have flat, wide noses. While they are primarily frugivores, sakis also eat seeds and occasionally small mammals and birds. These social primates live in small families of parents and offspring. For the first few weeks after birth, mothers are the primary caregiver, but fathers and siblings eventually help raise the young monkeys.

Interesting Fact 1

White-faced sakis can jump as far as 33 feet in a single bound, a helpful trick while escaping threats.

Interesting Fact 2

These diurnal monkeys are extremely quick, leaping between branches in a manner that has earned them the nickname “flying monkeys.”

Interesting Fact 3

They communicate through bird-like chirps, shaking their body, posturing, and loud growls.