Scientific Name: Callithrix jacchus
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Body Length: 180–190 cm
Weight: 235–260 g
Gestation: 148 days
Number of young: 2

Distribution: The Amazon, South America
Habitat: Rainforest

Description: Common Marmosets have a mixed coat of brown, grey and yellow with white ear tufts and a long, ringed tail. Like other marmosets, the Common Marmoset has claw-like nails which help them to climb.

Diet: Common Marmosets are omnivores and use their claws to gouge holes in trees and then eat the sap that is released. They have specialised teeth to create these holes in the tree trunks. They also eat insects, flowers, lizards, small birds, tree frogs and fungi.

In the wild: There are 10–12 marmosets in a troop and only one pair breeds. Among marmosets, it is the female who chooses her mate. Marmosets lick and cuddle their chosen mate. Males and older siblings carry the very young. Four out of five births are twins.

Marmosets fall prey to predators like wild cats, snakes, owls and raptors (birds of prey).

At Perth Zoo: The Common Marmoset exhibit is located in the Lesser Primate area.

Did you know? Common Marmosets have specialised alarm calls to warn other members of the group of danger. When under attack, the whole group may mob the predator, making loud noises and attacking until it retreats.