Predation on the common marmoset Callithrix jacchus (Primates, Callitrichidae) by the common boa Boa constrictor (Squamata, Boidae) in the Atlantic Forest of Northeastern Brazil

Abstract

Herein, we present the first record of predation on the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) by a common boa (Boa constrictor). The incident occurred during the afternoon in a restinga environment of the Atlantic Forest of northeastern Brazil. The snake captured the marmoset on the ground when a group of seven individuals of Callithrix jacchus was traveling among the restinga trees. The group remained on the top of a tree, from 1.5 to 4 m, exhibiting an alarm vocalization and surrounding the snake throughout the ingestion process. The snake was captured, measured, and released on the same site. This case report reinforces that the callitrichids are vulnerable to predation by large snakes and present some defensive behavior.