Usually only 1 female in the extended family breeds. Once the young can eat food items, group members will also surrender food to them. Young ride on adults' backs until 6-7 weeks, gradually increasing time spent away from security of an adult. Maturity occurs at 18-24 months. Long incisor teeth and reduced canine teeth designed for gouging holes in tree bark to get at sap or gum.
Claws help keep foothold on tree branches as the monkey runs along the branch surface.
Small size allows animal to hide in foliage or in tree hollows when danger threatens. Extended family groups help youngsters to learn how to raise offspring.