Golden Headed Lion Tamarin

Latin Name: Leontopithecus chrysomelas

Habitat and Range: Tropical rain forest in Brazil; arboreal usually to heights of 3-10 meters.

Captive/Wild Lifespan: Almost 30 years

Gestation: Twins are born after about 130 days. With the dominated female and male of the group forming permanent pair bond and mating for life.

Diet: Omnivore– Primarily insects and fungus with occasional birds and lizards.

Adaptations: Their long furry tails act as a balancing pole (just like a tight rope walker).

IUCN Status: Endangered 2008

Conservation: Conservation efforts are focused more on habitat preservation for wild population to maintain themselves.; however a captive breeding program is in place to maintain a healthy gene pool in the event of extinction in the wild. 

Did you Know: The whole family helps care for the newest babies, which will not walk or move on their own for nearly 3 months. All adults and even older children help carry and look after newborns.

Here at the CMC Zoo: Anneli is our female golden-headed lion tamarin, a 1.5 lb monkey native to Brazil. Anneli lives at the zoo with her mate, Jimmy. This stunning redhead became South Jersey famous when she won our Best Quarantine Hair competition back in May!