Goeldi's monkey  (Callimico goeldii)

This monkey is classified as Near Threatened (NT) on the IUCN Redlist 2003 as it exists in widely separated and localised populations (1). Though there is little chance of it becoming extinct in the near future it could become threatened very quickly should the areas in which it occurs be developed as logging sites or agricultural land (1).

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) has listed this species on Appendix I, prohibiting its international trade. However, since Goeldi's monkey is rare, its value on the international black market is increasing (4). Sadly, there is little protection of this species in its natural habitat across its range. In Colombia it has been seen in only six sites, of which only two are in National Parks (6). Should the other four sites prove to be attractive for human development or colonisation, this species is likely to become threatened. A first step for the conservation of Goeldi's monkey is therefore to ascertain this species' precise range, population locations and numbers (6). Since this species is naturally rare and dependant on a specialised habitat it will be important to take proactive steps to protect it as parts of its range may soon come under development (3).