The Common Squirrel Monkey is native to the rain and dry forests of South America. They are active during the day, spending most of their time in the middle level of the forest, moving from tree to tree looking for food. Their diet consists of fruit, insects, flowers and nectar.

The squirrel monkeys live in large groups from 20 to as many as 200 in some areas. They all sleep together at night, then divide up to go look for food.