Newly Discovered Monkey Nearly Extinct

The Caqueta titi monkey from the Amazonian jungles of Colombia.

Recently discovered, the primate is in extreme danger of extinction.

Found in 2008 by experts, led by primatologist Professor Thomas Defler, the animal is unique among some 20 other species of titi monkeys.

[Professor Thomas Defler, Lead investigator and Primatologist]:
"Well, these monkeys are the size of a cat essentially. And this particular monkey has a very chestnut red belly and beard, which is very, very striking. The most closely related species looks very similar but the closest related species has a white band over the eyes; this species does not."

Only about 250 monkeys still exist - and based on information gathered in the field, the team is studying the species, its habits and habitat at a Bogota laboratory.

Because the Caqueta titi is monogamous and only has one baby per year, its existence is especially threatened.

For once, getting up to monkey business could be a positive thing for the survival of this species.