This marmoset has a coppery or reddish coat, which gives it its name. Its body is small, approximately 25 cm long, and its tail is about 35 cm long. They are characterized by being diurnal and entirely arboreal.

They form small social groups, usually consisting of a pair and their young. They are monogamous animals and can reproduce once a year.

They are quite territorial and use chemical markers to delimit their range. They emit vocal calls to communicate with each other and warn of potential threats.

Deforestation is one of the main threats to this species, as the destruction of its natural habitat has led to a significant decline in its population.