Goeldi's monkey facts
- These monkeys were named after the Swiss zoologist Émil Goeldi who described many South American species.
- Despite being small in size, Goeldi's monkeys are amazing athletes capable of leaping four metres. That's equivalent to a human jumping the length of a tennis court!
- Goeldi's monkeys are frequently observed hanging out with other small monkey species such as tamarins. It's thought that sticking together helps both species look for food and avoid predators more effectively.
- Goeldi's monkeys are one of the only primates other than humans who are known to enjoy eating fungi! This acts as a nutrient-rich energy source during the dry season.
- When baby Goeldi's monkeys are born, the job of carrying the baby is shared by mum, dad and any older siblings too. This helps the female to recover more quickly from pregnancy and birth.
What do Goeldi's monkeys look like?
These miniature monkeys have black fur and a fluffy quiff on top of their heads. They can puff up their fur to appear larger when faced with predators or other monkeys. Listen out for the high-pitched squeaking calls of our pair of Goeldi's monkeys when you visit Rainforest Life!
What do Goeldi's monkeys eat?
Fruit, insects and fungi.
Where do Goeldi's monkeys live?
The Amazon rainforest in Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia and Peru.
Goeldi's monkey threats
Like many monkey species, Goeldi's monkeys are threatened by habitat loss and the illegal wildlife trade. Large areas of rainforest are being cleared unsustainably to make space for development and agriculture. You can help by looking for the FSC logo on wood, paper and cardboard products which indicates they've been sourced from sustainably managed forests.
Want to experience Rainforest Life?
A place in London like no other, with trees filled with monkeys, snoozing sloths and bats flying overhead! Be transported to the Amazon rainforest and find out why it's one our most popular spots!
