The Bolivian Squirrel Monkey (Saimiri boliviensis) is a primate mammal from the rainforests of Central and South America.

The Bolivian Squirrel Monkey has short fur that looks yellowish, with a black head, white throat and ears, and black around their mouth. Sometimes they are called Death’s Head Monkey. It is also known as the Black-Capped Squirrel Monkey.

It can grow to 35 centimetres (13 inches) long, with a 42 centimetre (16 inch) tail.

The Bolivian Squirrel Monkey is diurnal (active during the day), omnivorous (eating meat and plants, and even eggs) and arboreal (living in trees). It forages on the ground for food.

Its predators include eagles, hawks, snakes, and large cats.

It is native to the countries of Peru, Brazil, and Bolivia in the upper Amazon region. It prefers tropical rain forests.

It is an excellent climber. It uses its long tail to help it climb trees, and to maintain its balance. It can run and jump through the treetops.

It lives together in large, multiple male and multiple female groups with up to 500 members.

The female Bolivian Squirrel Monkey is pregnant for 150-170 days, before giving birth to one live young. Only the mother cares for her own baby until it is 18 months old.

It lives for 15-20 years.

Photographer: Martina Nicolls

Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM