What Part Of The World Are Squirrel Monkeys From

Saimiri sciureus live in the neotropical rainforests of South America, except in the southeastern coastal forests of Brazil.  However, squirrel monkeys in general (there are 5 different species) are found in Central and South America.                                                       
What Type Of Habitat Do Squirrel Monkeys Prefe                              Squirrel monkeys prefer primary and secondary forest, and cultivated areas, usually along streams.  They are arboreal and prefer the intermediate forest levels, but will occasionally descend to the ground or in upper canopy levels.

What Do Squirrel Monkeys Eat

Squirrel monkeys are omnivorous eating mainly fruit and some insects; they also consume some leaves and seeds. The first hour or so of the day is spent foraging for fruit.  From then on, they also look for invertebrates and small vertebrates (i.e. small frogs and lizards).  A group spreads throughout the forest in all canopy levels to search for food.                             

How Big Are Squirrel Monkeys

Squirrel monkeys are up to 12.5 inches long (body length), with a tail of approximately 16 inches.  They have a slender, lithe build, and only weigh about 1.5 to 2.0 lbs (males being slightly larger than females).  They are the smallest of the Primate family Cebidae.

What Is The Conservation Status Of Squirrel Monkeys

 Currently, captive squirrel monkey populations are maintained in research labs. Threats to wild squirrel monkeys include eagles in the trees and snakes on the ground. Squirrel monkeys are often kept in captivity, and they were once frequently sold as pets. Habitat destruction, illegal hunting, and capture for the pet trade or medical research all pose threats and problems to squirrel monkey population.