Taxonomic name:  Saimiri sciureus

Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List)

Wild Range:  Tropical forests of Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, and Suriname.

Diet:  Omnivorous, meaning they eat fruit, leaves, seeds, and insects.

Longevity in the wild: 15 - 20 years

Size: Body: ~30 cm; Tail: 35 - 43 cm

Weight: 0.5 - 1.2 kg

Fun fact:  Squirrel monkeys in the wild are often found in mixed species groups with other monkeys, including Capuchin monkeys and red-backed bearded sakis.

Recently our animal care team gave the male squirrel monkeys some enrichment made from a squash grown here in the Park.

Through daily enrichment, like new smells, different feeders, and special foods, the animals at the Zoo are presented with opportunities to exhibit natural behaviours like foraging, exploration, play, and problem-solving! Enrichment is a crucial care component, encouraging animals to demonstrate their natural species-specific behaviours.

Visit our squirrel monkeys, Spock, Sweet Pea, Pickle, Marmalade, Frank, and Scar in Toucan Ridge!