Mongabay · Climate & nature

First Yellow Fever Vaccinations for Black-Faced Lion Tamarins in Brazil

Researchers in Brazil have conducted the first yellow fever vaccinations on black-faced lion tamarins, an endangered primate species. This initiative aims to protect the critically small wild population from disease outbreaks.

The vaccination effort took place in July 2026 in Paraná state. Three tamarins were vaccinated and fitted with tracking collars. This species, also known as the caissara lion tamarin, is endangered with fewer than 400 individuals in the wild.

The black-faced lion tamarin is one of the rarest primates, first described in 1990. Its limited range has been fragmented, isolating subpopulations and increasing vulnerability.

Yellow fever poses a significant threat. The virus has circulated in the area, indicated by the disappearance of howler monkeys.

The vaccination protocol requires all captured tamarins to be vaccinated. The process is time-sensitive, with the vaccine effective for only three hours.

The vaccinated tamarins show no adverse reactions and are being monitored. Future plans include expanding vaccinations and potentially establishing a captive population.

Conservation efforts involve community outreach to foster local pride and promote sustainable development. Researchers aim to make the primate an asset for ecotourism.

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