Fauna
Mammal

Bald Uakari

Cacajao calvus

Also known as Bald-headed Uakari, Red Uakari, White Uakari

Bright crimson faces and striking bald heads make bald uakaris instantly recognizable as they leap through the high canopy of Amazonian flooded forests. Living in large troops of up to one hundred individuals, these social primates use exceptionally strong jaws to crack open tough, unripe seeds that other wildlife cannot penetrate. Their intense facial coloration serves as a visible sign of overall health, allowing potential mates to select robust partners.

ArborealFrugivoreSocial
Bald Uakari reference1 / 3
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VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyUnripe Seeds, Forest Fruits, Tree Snails
Predators
  • Harpy Eagle
  • Ocelot
  • Boa Constrictor
ThreatsDeforestation, habitat fragmentation, logging, and hunting pressure
HabitatsVárzea flooded forests and riverbanks in the western Amazon basin
Life span15–20 years in the wild
Classification
  1. FamilyPitheciidae
  2. SpeciesCacajao calvus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
May bite defensively if cornered; observe quietly from a safe distance in canopy habitats.
What to notice
Identified by a vibrant red bald face, shaggy pale coat, and uniquely short stubby tail.
Support conservation
Observe strictly from boat waterways or established trails without approaching canopy roosts.
Responsible observation
  • Boat Tours: Scan the high canopy of riverbanks in flooded várzea forests early in the morning when troops forage.
  • Binoculars: Use high-magnification optics to view troop dynamics high in the canopy without causing disturbance.
  • Noise Reduction: Keep quiet during field observations to avoid alarming sentries and flushing the troop.
Related species
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