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Common Marmoset: Facts About One of the World’s Smallest Monkeys
With white ear tufts and a long, banded tail, the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) is one of the smallest and most expressive monkeys in the world. Native to northeastern Brazil, it lives in close family groups and spends its days leaping through the trees in search of food. Here are the essentials.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Callithrix jacchus |
|---|---|
| Origin | Northeastern Brazil |
| Habitat | Tropical and coastal forests, woodland edges and scrub |
| Body size | About 19 to 25 cm, plus a tail longer than the body; weighs roughly 300 to 400 g |
| Diet | Tree gum, insects, fruit and nectar |
| Activity | Diurnal (active by day) |
| Social life | Lives in family groups |
Where do common marmosets live?
Common marmosets are native to northeastern Brazil. They live in tropical and coastal forests, as well as woodland edges and scrubland, where trees provide food and safe places to sleep.
How big is a common marmoset?
Don’t let the size fool you. An adult is only about 19 to 25 cm long from head to hips, with a tail that is longer than its body, and weighs roughly as much as a can of soft drink (300 to 400 g). That light build lets it race along thin branches.
What do marmosets eat?
Marmosets are gum specialists. Their lower front teeth are long and sharp, so they can gnaw small holes in tree bark and lick up the sticky gum that flows out. They combine it with insects, fruit and nectar to get protein, sugar and minerals.
A day in the life
Marmosets are diurnal, which means they are awake in daylight. They spend the day foraging, grooming each other and calling with high-pitched trills. At night they rest in dense foliage or tree cavities.
Family life
Marmosets live in family groups, usually between 3 and 15 individuals, often with one breeding pair and their offspring. They stay in touch with calls and spend a lot of time grooming one another, which keeps the group close.
Did you know?
Marmoset mothers often give birth to twins, and the whole family helps care for them. Fathers and older brothers and sisters carry the babies and pass them to the mother when it is time to feed.
Are marmosets suitable pets?
Marmosets are wild animals with complex needs: a large social group, a specialised diet and specialist veterinary care. Trade in wild primates is regulated or restricted in many countries, so always check local law and never buy an animal without proper documents. The best way to enjoy them is through wildlife documentaries and accredited zoos.
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