Today we celebrate World Cotton-top Tamarin Day – a day to raise awareness for the cotton-top tamarin (Saguinus oedipus), a small primate about the size of a squirrel. This critically endangered species is found only in Colombia’s Caribbean region where it faces extinction, caused primarily by habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade. Unfortunately, these animals are often sold as exotic pets.
Recent Rescue
A few months ago, a cotton-top tamarin named Tam was brought to our rescue centre in Spain. She had been found alone, disoriented, and abandoned in a Spanish residential area.
Tam was picked up by local police after she bit a passer-by. SEPRONA was alerted and contacted AAP. Thanks to the cooperation of the Guardia Civil and the Spanish Ministry of the Interior, Tam was taken in under the #SaveExotics project. It is likely she was purchased illegally and later escaped from a private home.
Not Pets
Primates are not pets. They are wild animals that belong in their natural environment, living freely among their own kind. Despite their small size, it is impossible to meet their complex needs for care, nutrition, and mental stimulation in a domestic setting.Tam’s Recovery
Tam clearly suffered during her time in captivity. She arrived at AAP underweight, with a dull and patchy coat, and a severe vitamin D deficiency. We also diagnosed a bone disorder and slight deformities in her arms – all signs of poor nutrition and lack of sunlight.
After a period of intensive care at AAP Spain, Tam has made a strong recovery. We hope she will soon be able to join other cotton-top tamarins and be transferred to a more natural environment, where she can once again live as part of a group – just as she should.
