Most of the monkeys are quite large, the weight of some significantly exceeds the weight of a person, but there are very few among them. The smallest monkey is the dwarf marmoset, which can freely fit in the palm of a person.
Some of the smallest primates
The pygmy marmoset is one of the tiniest primates, second only to the mouse lemur. These funny monkeys live in South America. They are common in Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, and western Brazil. A large number of marmosets live in the Amazon basin. These monkeys reach only 11-15 centimeters in length, and their weight does not exceed 100-150 grams, which is comparable to the weight of a mobile phone. Dwarf marmosets - owners of long, prehensile tails 17-22 centimeters in length. Their body is covered with thick wool. From above, it is golden brown in color, which allows the animals to hide more successfully, while the lower half can be white or orange. On the head and chest, the marmosets have long tufts of hair resembling a mane.
The smallest monkeys feed on tree sap. To prey it, they bite the grass with their sharp incisors. Their diet also includes fruits, insects and arachnids. Igrunks are active in the morning and afternoon. These animals are very careful and, at the first suspicion of danger, they quickly hide.
Igrunks live in large families spanning several generations. Social interactions play a large role in the life of these monkeys. In the upbringing of the younger generation, not only the father is involved, but also other males of the group. They tinker with the cubs, carry them on their backs, and return them to their mother so that she can feed them.
Igrunks are sensitive to the members of their pack, but do not tolerate strangers. If an alien monkey wanders into their territory, the tiny animal turns into a stern warrior. Fights among pygmy marmosets are not uncommon.
Domesticated pygmy marmosets
Igrunks are small in size and good-looking, so they are often kept as pets. Monkeys are settled in spacious enclosures. It is advisable to start marmosets in pairs, since it is very important for them to communicate with relatives. The presence of a brother does not mean that marmosets will ignore their own owner. Moreover, they can accept a person who spends a lot of time with them into their flock. Then the monkeys will freely let themselves be stroked and can even take care of the owner by examining his hair for fleas. Cheerful running, funny antics and chirping of dwarf marmosets, reminiscent of the sounds that birds make, will give many pleasant moments to the owner of these exotic animals.
