Squirrel Monkeys are found in in Costa Rica. This is a lowland primary rain forest located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica , with few roads and almost no development of the land and little invasion by man. Tourist come here to Corcovado National Park but not in large numbers because it is inaccessible except by water or by air ( small airstrips where single and twin engine planes land).
These squirrel monkeys are small, but the funny thing is the males gains weight during their breeding season, up to 0% of their body weight. It seems that the females are more attracted to the heavier males. Opposite from us humans, right.
Squirrel monkeys like to eat small bats and small birds and bird eggs. And large snakes like to eat the small squirrel monkeys. They live and travel in large groups, sometimes in the hundreds, and have vocal sounds which warn against impending predators. To mark their territory they rub their tales and bodies with their own urine.
Captured for the pet trade, these small monkeys are favorites for gaining big profits. In Costa Rica we don’t see them being captured and sold, but in other countries such as South America these cute little monkeys can be seen in cages in large central markets in the big cities.
These monkeys are very cute with a white mask of fur around their eyes and and dark brown coloration around their mouth, looking like a beard. Their strange looking ears are large and pointed and protrude outward. They playfully jump from limb to limb in the tree tops and hardly ever come down to the ground.
A Rare and Endangered Species
The Central American Squirrel Monkey is the smallest of Costa Rica’s four monkey species. Unlike the more common Howler and Capuchin monkeys, squirrel monkeys have a very limited range and are considered Near Threatened due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
Corcovado National Park is one of the best and safest refuges for these monkeys, offering protected forests, plenty of food sources, and natural corridors for movement.
Where to Spot Squirrel Monkeys in Corcovado
Visitors to Corcovado have a good chance of seeing squirrel monkeys, especially in areas around:
- Sirena Ranger Station
- San Pedrillo Sector
- Dense secondary forests with fruiting trees
These monkeys usually travel in large, energetic troops, sometimes numbering up to 40 individuals. Their constant chattering, quick movements, and playful behavior make them one of the most entertaining wildlife encounters in the park.
Their Role in the Ecosystem
Squirrel monkeys play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of Corcovado’s rainforest. They:
- Help disperse seeds as they feed on fruits
- Control insect populations
- Serve as prey for larger predators like the harpy eagle and ocelot, contributing to the natural food chain
Tips for Tourists Hoping to See Squirrel Monkeys
To maximize your chances and protect the species:
✔ Go Early in the Morning
Monkeys are more active during the cooler morning hours.
✔ Bring Binoculars
Their small size and quick movements make a good pair of binoculars extremely helpful.
✔ Hire a Local Naturalist Guide
Guides can identify calls, movement patterns, and hotspots that visitors might miss.
✔ Keep a Respectful Distance
Never touch, feed, or chase wildlife.
✔ Stay Quiet and Move Slowly
Sudden movements or loud noises may scare them deeper into the forest canopy.
Why Seeing Squirrel Monkeys Is So Special
Encountering a troop of squirrel monkeys in Corcovado is unforgettable. Their energy, curiosity, and tight family bonds offer a glimpse into the magic of untouched rainforest life. Watching them leap gracefully between branches and communicate with one another is a reminder of why Corcovado National Park is considered one of the most important protected areas in the world.
Best Time to Visit for Monkey Sightings
Squirrel monkeys can be seen year-round, but wildlife visibility improves in the dry season (December–April). During this time, the forest canopy is slightly thinner, and troop movements are easier to observe.
Eco-Friendly Tourism Tips
Corcovado’s wildlife thrives because of strong conservation efforts. Visitors can help protect squirrel monkeys by:
- Maintaining a respectful distance
- Never feeding wildlife
- Staying on designated trails
- Booking tours with certified naturalist guides
Conclusion
Seeing squirrel monkeys in Corcovado National Park is a highlight for many travelers to Costa Rica. Their playful nature, rarity, and beauty make them a symbol of the park’s incredible biodiversity. If you’re planning a trip to the Osa Peninsula, be sure to keep your eyes and ears open — these lively little primates are a treasure of the rainforest.