Sexual Dimorphism

White-faced saki monkeys exhibit sexually dimorphism, which means the males and females look different. Males are larger than females and have black hair with white faces. Females are smaller than males and have shorter, brownish-grey hair with white or pale around the nose and mouth.

Mate Selection

Saki monkeys were previously thought to be monogamous; however, recent studies show they have a variety of reproduction strategies depending on available resources. For instance, when environmental conditions are unfavorable and food is scarce, there will be more monogamous groups. In turn, if the environmental conditions are favorable and food resources are plentiful, males tend to be more polygamous.

Tree Life

Saki monkey bodies are adapted for life in the trees. Rarely coming down to the ground, they have long bushy tails that help them balance as they walk along branches on all fours, much like a cat. They use their strong hind legs for giant leaps or to stand up and sprint if needed.