The golden lion tamarin (Leontopithecus rosalia) is a small primate species native to Brazil. Here’s a description of the golden lion tamarin and its distribution:

Description of the Golden Lion Tamarin:

• Appearance: Golden lion tamarins are small monkeys with a striking appearance. They have a golden-orange fur coat, a long, flowing mane around their face, and a long tail. Their hands and feet have sharp claws for climbing, and they have specialized teeth adapted for eating fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.
• Size: Adult golden lion tamarins typically measure around 20 to 26 centimeters (8 to 10 inches) in length, with a tail length of approximately 30 to 40 centimeters (12 to 16 inches). They weigh between 500 to 700 grams (1.1 to 1.5 pounds).
• Behavior: Golden lion tamarins are arboreal animals, meaning they spend most of their time in the trees. They are highly social and live in family groups consisting of a breeding pair and their offspring. They communicate through vocalizations, facial expressions, and scent marking. They are agile climbers and can leap long distances between branches.
• Habitat: Golden lion tamarins inhabit a range of forest habitats, including tropical rainforests, moist forests, and riparian forests. They are particularly common in areas with dense vegetation and access to water sources, such as rivers and streams. They rely on the forest canopy for food, shelter, and protection from predators.
• Reproduction: Breeding in golden lion tamarins typically occurs year-round, with females giving birth to twins or occasionally triplets after a gestation period of around 130 to 140 days. Both parents participate in caring for and carrying the young, which are weaned at around 8 to 12 weeks of age.
• Conservation Status: The golden lion tamarin is currently classified as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). They face numerous threats, including habitat loss and fragmentation, illegal wildlife trade, and predation by introduced species. Conservation efforts, including habitat restoration, captive breeding programs, and community education initiatives, are underway to help protect and conserve this species.

Distribution:

• Golden lion tamarins are endemic to Brazil and are found in the Atlantic Forest biome, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.
• Within Brazil, golden lion tamarins are primarily found in the coastal regions of the states of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
• They inhabit a range of habitats within the Atlantic Forest, including lowland rainforests, montane forests, and riparian forests.
• While they have a relatively restricted distribution compared to some other primate species, golden lion tamarins are still relatively common in suitable habitats and can be found in protected areas such as national parks, reserves, and private nature reserves. Efforts to conserve their habitat and mitigate threats such as deforestation and illegal wildlife trade are essential for ensuring the long-term survival of this species.