New Titi Monkey Species Discovered In Amazon

A newly discovered species of titi monkey purrs like a cat and looks like a leprechaun.

Although it was first spotted in 1976 in Caqueta province of Columbia, frequent armed conflict in the region has prevented scientists from being able to confirm its existence until now.

The new species, named the Caqueta titi monkey or Callicebus caquetensis, is one of about 20 species of titi monkeys, which all live in the Amazon basin.

The Caqueta titi monkey is being recommended for classification as Critically Endangered. The population size has been estimated at less than 250 individuals, and its habitat has been fragmented by clearing for agricultural land.

Titi monkeys are one of the only species of primate that are monogamous, gibbons being one of the only other ones.  Scientists say that their monogamous behavior leads them causes them to be endearing.  One of their behaviors is “space saving,” where they encourage the other monkey to get closer to them.  All of the babies purr like cats.  When they feel very content they purr towards each other.

Original article here.


The Callicebus caquetensis is the top right: