Facts About Monkeys

monkeys

There are 264 species of monkeys that live throughout the world. They are highly social animals. These creatures have a complex communication system. Using facial expressions, body movements, vocalizations, and screams, they tell others what they want.

Monkeys can live up to forty years. Their lifespan depends on the species. Some species are savannah dwellers, while others live in forests. Most species are diurnal.

Monkeys are known for their ability to communicate with each other through sounds. A loud vocalization can tell them to stay out of a particular area or to come back when a predator is present. Another sign is yawning. Smiling and head bobbing can also indicate aggression.

Many monkeys are considered to be intelligent. Old World monkeys are found in Asia from Afghanistan to Japan. Others are found in Africa and the Red Sea coast of Arabia.

Marmosets have claws on all of their digits. This is an adaptation for living in trees. Other species use webbed toes to swim.

New World monkeys have long, prehensile tails. They are distinguished from older world monkeys by a cheek pouch that allows them to store food.

Some monkeys eat fruit and nuts. Other species eat a variety of seeds. It is believed that some monkeys carry tuberculosis.

Monkeys are a large, social animal. They live in troopes of up to several hundred individuals. The population of these animals is endangered because of habitat loss. Several monkey species are included in the conservation program.