Eastern pygmy marmoset

Callithrix pygmaea nivieventris

Eastern pygmy marmoset sitting on a branch in the sun Image: Amy Middleton 2023

Status

NE DD LC NT VU EN CR EW EX

For more info on classifications visit www.iucnredlist.org

We have two Eastern pygmy marmosets – Terminator and Hefty.

Population

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Stable

Diet

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Omnivore

Habitat

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Rainforest

Fact file

  • Pygmy marmosets are the smallest monkey in the world and weigh about 6oz

  • Tree gum makes up between 60-70% of their diet. The bottom jaw of the pygmy marmoset is V-shaped to allow it to make holes in the tree

  • Larger insects are a favourite food, as they have more protein in them and are worth the extra effort in catching. They will jump on the insects to catch them

Eastern pygmy marmoset sitting on a branch in the sun Image: Amy Middleton 2023

How we're helping

Like all the animals in our care, our pygmy marmosets are amazing ambassadors for their relatives in the wild and help hundreds of thousands of people connect with nature every year. They encourage visitors to learn about the threats facing wildlife and the action they can take to help create a world where nature is protected, valued, and loved.

As a wildlife conservation charity, we care for the animals here at the zoo and work to protect species at risk around the world. From providing expertise in genetics and veterinary health to protecting wild places with local conservation partners, and even restoring threatened species to the wild, we are active where we are needed most.

Find out more about RZSS conservation