Uncertain Conservation Status of Squirrel Monkeys in Costa Rica, Saimiri oerstedi oerstedi and Saimiri oerstedi citrinellus

Abstract

Central American squirrel monkeys, Saimiri oerstedi, have never been abundant. This species is apparently extinct in Panama and nearly so in Costa Rica. Less than 4,000 are estimated to survive in Costa Rica. In recent years only a limited number of squirrel monkey troops have been documented outside of two Costa Rican national parks, Parques Nacionales Corcovado and Manuel Antonio. Numerous factors contribute to a pessimistic prognosis for this species, most importantly, the continued deforestation and tourist development with concomitant demands on prime squirrel monkey habitat from hotels, restaurants, roads, and vacation villas in the Pacific Wet Lowland habitat of squirrel monkeys. We also highlight features of the natural history of this species most relevant to conservation efforts with the goal of enhancing the success of surveys and maintenance and breeding of captive groups.