Details
Leontopithecus rosalia
The golden lion tamarin is a small social primate of South American forest. Active by day, family groups forage in the canopy for fruit and small prey.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
It lives mainly in lowland forest, using vine tangles, cavities, and canopy pathways. Connected forest is vital for movement and breeding.
Body length is about 20-34 cm and weight about 500-700 g. Bright golden fur and a long facial mane give it its name.
Diurnal groups travel socially through branches. At night, they shelter in tree cavities or other protected sites.
It is omnivorous, eating fruit, nectar, insects, and small vertebrates. Slender fingers probe bark and crevices for hidden food.
Care is shared within the group, with fathers and older helpers carrying young. This cooperative care reduces the burden of arboreal parenting.
Its status is listed as Endangered. Loss and fragmentation of Atlantic Forest habitat remain central concerns.
