The golden lion tamarin is a small, brightly colored monkey native to the Atlantic coastal forests of Brazil. They are known for their striking golden-orange fur and long, tufted manes that resemble a lion's mane. These primates typically weigh around 1 to 1.5 pounds and have a body length of about 18 inches, excluding their long tails. Golden lion tamarins are social animals that live in family groups, often consisting of 4 to 8 individuals. They primarily feed on fruits, insects, and small vertebrates, playing a crucial role in their ecosystem by helping to disperse seeds. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect their habitat, as they are currently classified as endangered.