About Saguinus midas (Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
Size and Weight
The body of the golden-handed tamarin measures 20.5 to 28 centimetres (8.1 to 11.0 inches); when including the tail, its total length measures 31 to 44 centimetres (12 to 17 inches). It weighs between 400 and 550 grams (0.88 to 1.21 pounds).
Fur and Facial Features
The golden-handed tamarin has dark brown or black fur, with contrasting golden-orange hair on its feet and hands, which is how it got its common name. Its dark face is hairless, and its large ears protrude from the surrounding fur.
Limb Features
Like all marmosets, golden-handed tamarins have claws rather than nails on their fingers and toes, with the only exception being the big toe. Additionally, their thumb is not opposable.
Distribution and habitat
Native Range
This species is native to wooded areas located north of the Amazon River, in Brazil, Guyana, French Guiana, Suriname, and possibly Venezuela.
Taxonomy of Related Populations
A population of tamarins found south of the Amazon River that does not have the contrasting colored feet and hands was previously considered a sub-population of golden-handed tamarins, but it is now recognized as a separate species, the black tamarin.
Interspecific Competition
Populations of golden-handed tamarins appear to be expanding into the historical range of the pied tamarin, and the golden-handed tamarin is gradually displacing the pied tamarin through interspecific competition.
Habitat Preference
This species prefers trees that have small crowns.
