White-bellied Pygmy Marmoset
Cebuella niveiventris
Here at Banham Zoo
The white-bellied pygmy marmoset is one of the world's smallest monkeys and a fascinating resident of Banham Zoo! Native to the rainforests of the western Amazon, this tiny primate weighs around 100 grams and is easily recognisable by its white underbelly and golden-brown fur.
Using their sharp claws, they climb trees to feed on sap, fruit, and insects. Highly social, these marmosets live in close family groups and communicate through a variety of calls and scent markings.
Where Do I Live?
Brazil
Pygmy marmosets inhabit the edges of rainforests in the upper Amazon, living along streams where the cover is thick and there is an abundance of insects.
What Do I Eat?
These marmosets are gum-feeding specialists, with long lower incisors to gnaw holes in the bark of certain trees to stimulate sap production. They will also feed on fruit and insects.
How Do I Breed?
Females can breed twice a year and after a pregnancy of around 5 months twins are usually born. The adult males and other group members will help her carry the offspring.
Together, we protect wildlife
Conservation status
Vulnerable (VU)
High risk of endangerment in the wild.
Populations of pygmy marmosets are decreasing in the wild due to hunting, the pet trade and habitat loss and degradation throughout its range. Our pygmy marmosets are part of a European Conservation breeding programme and have bred well here at the zoo.
Some Helpful Links
Where is the
White-bellied Pygmy Marmoset
located?
Our
White-bellied Pygmy Marmoset
is located in our
Primate Zone
, map reference
17
.
What’s the best time to see the animals?
The best time to see our animals is often during feeding times or in the cooler parts of the day when they are most active. Check our daily timetable for keeper talks and feeding sessions for an up-close look! Our habitat signage also includes helpful hints and tips to make the most of your visit.
How do you ensure the animals' welfare?
Animal welfare is our top priority. We provide species-specific habitats, enrichment activities, and expert veterinary care to ensure all our animals thrive.
