Rosamira Guillen originally entered the field of wildlife protection as a landscape architect with the Barranquilla Zoo in northwest Colombia. She became Director of the zoo in 2001 and grew increasingly interested in developing partnerships with conservation organizations. She started an education campaign to highlight the plight of cotton-top tamarins, which led to a long-term collaboration with Proyecto Titi (PT). Rosamira is now PT's full-time Executive Director.
Weighing less than a pound, the cotton-top tamarin sports a shock of white hair on its head and a long tail that helps it balance in the treetops. Known as "South America's cutest monkey," the cotton-top tamarin is one of the most endangered primates in the world. The rapid destruction of its habitat by deforestation represents the greatest threat to the tamarin’s survival.
Proyecto Tití (PT) combines field research with education initiatives and community programs. PT works closely with farmers to develop sustainable agricultural practices and improved land management techniques. Its programs focus on economic stability and present alternative income opportunities that decrease dependence on forest-product income. Hands-on educational programs foster a keen sense of pride and enthusiasm among local residents in protecting the unique biodiversity of their country.
One of the joys of watching cotton-top tamarins is seeing how their life unfolds right in front of us. Even after 20 years of studying these amazing animals, they still provide us with new insights into their behavior. More
