Facts About Monkeys

Monkeys are the largest members of the order Strepsirrhine and include over 250 species. These simian primates are found in many different habitats, from desert-like savannas to snowy mountain ranges. They are generally diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. Most monkeys are arboreal, spending much of their time in trees, but some species, such as baboons, spend more time on the ground. Monkeys have long, strong tails that they use for balance and for swinging on branches. They also have opposable thumbs that they can use to grasp objects such as a banana peel or a tree branch.

Monkeys have complex social systems that differ among species. They often interact with each other through grooming, a gesture of respect and affection. Species that live in groups called troops travel together during the day to find food, and they defend their territory from other troop members. Within large troops, there are usually monogamous pairs that breed and care for their offspring. Other species, such as titi monkeys and marmosets, live in family units called harems consisting of one adult male and several females.

Interestingly, many monkeys have unique anatomical features. For example, colobus monkeys have a stub for a thumb and a specialized chambered stomach that allows them to digest leaves. Some Old World monkeys, such as snub-nosed monkeys and male mandrills, have unusual noses or brightly colored skin on their buttocks.