The midas ursulus is found in the Lower Amazon, frequently in the
neighbourhood of towns, and it seems much less afraid of man than most
other monkeys. It is seldom that more than three or four individuals
are seen together. It moves generally among the larger boughs and
trunks of trees, its long nails assisting it to cling securely to the
bark.
It lives on both animal and vegetable food; the former including various
insects, eggs, and occasionally a young bird--while its vegetable diet
consists of all the sweetest fruits it can find. The smaller insects--
flies, and other soft-bodied creatures--it pops into its mouth whole;
but when eating a larger one--such as a cockroach--it nips off the head,
wings, and legs, before putting it into its mouth.
It has gained the name of oustiti, in consequence of its giving vent to
a little sharp whistle when alarmed or irritated; but it otherwise
generally preserves silence.
The midas ursulus is about nine inches long; and the tail measures
fifteen inches. It is clothed in a thick, long fur, and has a
reddish-brown streak down the middle of the back.
It is often seen in the houses at Para, and when treated kindly becomes
very tame and familiar. When, however, strangers approach it, its dark,
watchful eyes, expressive of distrust, observe every movement which
takes place.