Squirrel Monkey

Scientific & Common Names

Kingdom - Animalia

Phylum - Chordata

Class - Mammalia

Order - Primates

Family - Sebidae

Genus - Saimiri

Common Names - Squirrel Monkey, Death's Head Monkey

Characteristics

All of the species of squirrel monkeys are small primates with short fur and long tails. Until 1984 they were all considered a single species, but now there are five separate types, most of which can be distinguished by variations in the white fur around the face.

Breeding

Squirrel monkey birth is seasonal, with females having their babies during the rainy season. Males do not participate in child raising.

Behavior

These monkeys live in large groups and spend most of their time moving very quickly through trees. Their tails are used for balance, not for climbing. They typically eat fruits, seeds, nuts, and insects.

History

In 1959, a squirrel monkey named Miss Baker was sent into space by the United States. She flew in a capsule 300 miles high and returned safely after a 16 minute flight. She lived to be 27 years old, which is old for a squirrel monkey. She passed away in 1984.

Squirrel monkeys are frequently seen in the pet trade.

Present Status

In many regions where they’re present, squirrel monkeys are thought of as pests because they often invaded plantations and farms for food. However, this is considered to be a direct result of habitat loss. Although squirrel monkeys as a whole are not classified as endangered, two subspecies are classified as vulnerable due to the previously mentioned loss of their natural habitat coupled with a dwindling supply of their most commonly consumed foods.