Golden-handed Tamarins!

The Golden-handed Tamarin (Saguinus midas) is a common monkey often seen foraging in Kabalebo. It is also one of the most difficult ones to photograph due to its size and urge to keep on moving.

The Golden-handed Tamarin is the smallest monkey I have seen so far in Kabalebo. With 25 cm in length (tail alone 35 cm) they are as big as a common house cat. As they are also lightweight monkeys (500 grams) it doesn't make it much easier for photographers either. Countless of times I have spotted the Golden-handed Tamarin while it was also staring back at me. But the moment we made eye contact it suddenly started to move. Like agile small 'cats' only this time they are monkeys. 

The Golden-handed Tamarin is easy recognizable as the ones with light brown 'hands'. They are also the smallest monkey I have seen so far. Often seen active during the early mornings or late afternoons in search of food. They prefer insects, nectar, papaya's and Inga fruits. Even though they are best known as arboreal animals, I have occasionally seen them on the ground running to the next tree. That is when they suddenly appear in front of an open area. 

Golden-handed Tamarins travel in small groups, usually between 5 - 8. Their favorite hide out in the jungle is the dense vegetation covered with lots of vines. It is a perfect exit for them whenever they feel that they are being watched. 

You might also like the following posts:

Howler monkeys

Travel buddies: Common Squirrel monkeys and Brown Capuchin Monkeys