Cotton-Top Tamarins
Cotton-top Tamarins, Saguinus Oedipus, are critically endangered in their native home of north-western Colombia, South America, due to deforestation and the illegal pet trade.
This species of monkey is recognisable from their head of hair which looks a bit like a ball of cotton.
They are omnivores so will often be seen eating fruit and vegetables as well as a variety of protein items.
Cotton-top Tamarins live in complex troops where there is a bonded dominant breeding pair with submissive helpers which help to care for offspring; only the dominant pair will breed as the submissive female’s reproduction is supressed.
They are a canopy dwelling species therefore they have claws for climbing and a long tail for balance, come in person and see our Tamarins use these features to move around!
Keeper Talks
Learn about these endangered species through our keeper talk and watch them being fed! This talk is also combined with our quoll talk.
Talks start at 10.35am in front of the Cotton-top Tamarin exhibit and are run on a Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday outside of school holidays.
During school holidays check the zookeeper talk schedule for more dates and times.
Australasian Species Management Program
Alexandra Park Zoo is proud to be part of the Australasian Species Management Program (ASMP) to raise awareness of this highly social primate species.
"Monkey Park"
Alexandra Park Zoo is often affectionately referred to as the "Monkey Park" following popular primate exhibits over the years, starting with the first monkey transported from Melbourne Zoo in 1912 via the ship Tinana.
New arrival
In 2023 following the passing of Solita, the region's oldest surviving Cotton-top Tamarin at age 24 years and 8 months, Alexandra Park Zoo welcomed Philippe, a four-year old Cotton-top Tamarin from the National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra who has become a companion and possible breeding partner for Solita's daughter Turbo. Watch Philippe's arrival at Alexandra Park Zoo.
Did you know?
When Cotton-Top Tamarins become alarmed or excited their white fur stands up to make them look more impressive!
Read more about the Zoo's conservation efforts surrounding these species here.