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Golden lion tamarin

A golden lion tamarin.
A golden lion tamarin. Photo: Smithsonian Institute

The golden lion tamarin was certainly on the brink of extinction in the late 20th century, when its wild numbers were estimated at around 200 individuals. Now there are about 2,500—hardly a complete comeback, but the petite primates are well on their way. About 30% of the wild population are descendants of tamarins raised in human care, according to the Smithsonian’s Conservation Biology Institute.