Emperor Tamarin
(Saguinus imperator)
DESCRIPTION: The emperor tamarin are thought to have been named after Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany due to their distinctive long, white, drooping moustache. The dense coat is blackish (but reddish on the chest), and there are tufts of hair on the ears. The animal weighs around 250-500 grams and reaches a length of around 30cm with a 36cm tail. The very long tail is not prehensile but it does help to keep the monkey balanced while moving around in trees. It is a diurnal animal, spending the majority of it’s days in the trees.
STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION: Emperor Tamarins are found in the tropical forests of Southwest Amazon Basin, West Brazil, East Peru and North Bolivia, This type of emperor tamarin is endangered mainly due to the destruction of its environment by deforestation. They are also kept in captivity as pets under poor conditions. Even when people try to be nice, captivity is never as good for a wild animal as its home forest.
LIFE HISTORY: Living in groups of two to eight animals where mutual grooming plays an important role for bonding and socializing. Gestation is 140-145 days and females typically give birth to twins. All males—not just the fathers care and support the young, carrying them and bringing them to the mother to nurse. The animals often associate themselves with other Tamarins like the Brown-mantled Tamarin. It has various cries which help them to promptly recognize interlopers.
