Exploratory analysis of key factors in the habitat use of a Neotropical primate in an urban environment: The White-footed tamarin (Saguinus leucopus, Callitrichidae)

Abstract

Abstract High levels of species diversity and endemism in developing countries contrast with high rates of human population expansion and urban development. This poses a challenge for wildlife and their ability to adapt to transformed and fragmented habitats. In the Neotropics, tamarins and marmosets (Primates: Callitrichidae) have established populations in urbanized areas, including the White-footed tamarin in north-western Colombia, where it is prone to metabolic syndrome presumably due to nutritional issues and reduced physical activity. We explored the habitat use and activity budget of a social group of the White-footed tamarin established in an isolated forest patch in Medellín, Colombia over a 12-month period. We applied multiple linear regressions to assess 1) the seasonal variation of diet and 2) the role of landscape features on the use of the available habitat. Resting was the most dominant behavior. The diet comprised a range of animal and plant items as well as a smaller proportion of anthropogenic food. The diet diversity showed an inverse relationship with the within-month humidity variation, indicating an adaptation to seasonal changes. The use of available area was associated with tree density and abundance of key plant species that are either consumed or used as part of corridors. Our results show that flexible and generalist diet habits are critical in adaptation to cities. However, food oversupply in isolated forest patches in cities may lead to sedentarism and compromise the health of urban fauna. Strategic planting of key tree species that provide food sources and facilitate dispersal is recommended.