We are currently home to two cotton-top tamarins, Elf and Zecca.

FACT FILE

• Cotton-top tamarins live in family units of two to nine individuals
• Disproportionately heavy when born, tamarin babies weigh between 15-20% of their mother's weight
• They get the water they need by licking leaves that are wet with rain or dew

HOW WE'RE HELPING

Wild populations of cotton-top tamarins are in decline due to hunting for the pet trade, habitat loss, and degradation. Here at RZSS, our cotton-top tamarins are part of the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) which ensures a healthy and genetically diverse population.

Like all the animals in our care, our cotton-top tamarins are amazing ambassadors for their relatives in the wild and help hundreds of thousands of people connect with nature every year. They encourage visitors to learn about the threats facing wildlife and the action they can take to help create a world where nature is protected, valued, and loved.

As a wildlife conservation charity, we care for the animals here at the zoo and work to protect species at risk around the world. From providing expertise in genetics and veterinary health, to protecting wild places with local conservation partners, and even restoring threatened species to the wild, we are active where we are needed most.

Find out more about RZSS conservation