This monkey species is native to the tropical forests of Brazil, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela. White-faced sakis are primarily arboreal, remaining in the canopy for most of their lives. They descend to the ground occasionally to feed, but sleep in the trees, curling up on branches high above the forest floor.

White-faced sakis live in small groups and have a varied diet, feeding on fruits, leaves, and small animals. They possess strong canine teeth that allow them to crack open hard shells of nuts and seeds. These monkeys are skilled leapers, able to jump up to ten metres between branches. When threatened, they respond by fluffing up their body hair and stomping their feet to intimidate potential threats.
Females give birth to a single infant, typically between late November and December. The young cling to the mother's belly and later ride on her back. Initially born with brown fur, males begin to develop black fur around two months, while females retain their brown fur with a distinctive white stripe below each eye. By six months, the young are fully independent. As diurnal creatures, these monkeys are active during the day.

The white-faced saki is classified as of Least Concern by the IUCN due to its wide distribution and presence in protected areas. However, habitat destruction caused by human activities, as well as hunting for food and the pet trade, pose significant threats to their population.

Sakis often form lifelong pair bonds. They are generally shy and easily startled, often avoiding human interaction.

The saki group at Fota Wildlife Park consists of a breeding pair and their offspring. These monkeys, which prefer warmer environments, are typically housed in a temperature-controlled space with large windows for visitors to observe. Their diet includes monkey chow, fruits, vegetables, and insects they gather from eucalyptus trees on the island where they live.