Animals in Costa Rica Close to Extinction - The Squirrel Monkey

The Squirrel Monkey

The Squirrel Monkey is the smallest of the monkeys that inhabit our forests. His favorite foods are insects and berries. Its body measures approximately 75 cm, 40 cm of those 75 cms correspond to the queue. It is a reddish-yellow color with black around the face, a prehensile tail (lets them grab onto different surfaces) elongated dark coloration.

Distribution

In Costa Rica, there are two subspecies or races. The threatened species is in the area of Parrita, Quepos and Potrero Grande de Buenos Aires. The other sub specie is found south of the country, mainly in the Osa region. It is often seen in the Manuel Antonio National Park, Quepos and near Puerto Jimenez in the Osa Peninsula forests.

Feeding

The Squirrel Monkey is an inhabitant of primary and secondary forests, where it is frequently seen in groups looking for food.

Threats

• Destruction of its natural habitat.
• Poaching for the purpose of selling to pet stores or persons wanting a wild animal as a pet.

This species is listed in the Appendix of the Convention on Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).