A golden lion tamarin biological reserve was created in Brazil in 1974. Nearly 140 captive-bred animals have been released in the Poco das Antas Biological Reserve and surrounding areas since 1984. Animals from several different zoos are typically first sent to the National Zoo in Washington, DC, where they are given a taste of independence. After a few months of this training they are sent to the Golden Lion Tamarin Project Headquarters at Poco das Antas. There they are provided with nest boxes and food, but the food is moved farther and farther away and gradually reduced to encourage natural foraging.
Some offspring are the result of pairings between captive and wild-born animals.
Included within those animals that have been reintroduced and have reproduced are two tamarins born and reared here at Woodland Park Zoo. The effort to save endangered species requires cooperation and support at the international, national, regional and individual levels. You can help in this cause. Join and become active in a conservation organization of your choice. Don't buy products made from wild animal parts.