Description
Scientific name: Callithrix jacchus
Life span: Up to 15- 20 years in captivity
The Common marmoset is a very small-sized monkey. Its multicolored pelage coat has brown, yellow, and gray flecks. It has a long tail with black and white bands. Adults have ears that have a tuft of white hair. Their infants have brown- yellow color coats. Common marmosets have a body weight range between 235-256 g. Males have a height of 189 mm and females have 186 mm. They prefer to eat grains, vegetables, small insects, and fruits.
Native Region/Habitat
Common marmoset is endemic to Paraiba, Brazil, Piaui, Rio Grande do Norte, Bahia, Pernambuco, and Ceará. They are found in riverine forests, dry secondary forests, savannah forests, and edge habitats.
As Pet
Behavior/Temperament
Common marmosets are active and arboreal in nature. They hang from branches of trees with the help of their long claws. They prefer to live in groups of 15 marmosets. In captivity, they live in groups to groom, play, and share food with one another. They use their scent gland for marking their territories. They become aggressive which is why sometimes it can not be a good option as a pet if not trained properly.
Care/Grooming
Common marmosets need large enclosures in which they can walk, jump, and swing easily. The enclosure must have branches and trees on which they can swing easily. They love to play with toys and soft objects. Regular veterinary visits are important because they are more prone to infections. They must not be left alone and unattended. They need intense care. The enclosure must be cleaned regularly. They can be quite vicious and hostile when they are sexually mature. They must be kept in isolation when they become aggressive during the breeding season.
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