Monkeys are a diverse group of mammals of the infraorder Simiiformes, or simians. They are the most numerous of all primates and include both New World monkeys and Old World monkeys and apes (infraorder Hylomorpha).
Unlike the cute, cuddly chimpanzees that feature in popular cartoons, some monkeys are quite dangerous. In the wild, monkeys hunt for their food and serve as seed dispersers to help rainforest ecosystems regenerate. They use their long tails to balance themselves in the treetops, and some monkeys have razor-sharp claws that enable them to catch other small creatures like birds or lizards.
While many people associate monkeys with bananas, these animals are omnivores and eat a variety of foods. They also enjoy consuming fruits and leaves, flowers, insects, berries, and even seeds. The black spider monkey is especially interesting; this Central and South American species gets its name from its long, black limbs, which make it look like a spider.
Interestingly, some monkeys prefer to eat fermented fruit that contains alcohol. This may seem strange to humans, but it makes sense for monkeys, as the alcoholic fruit is more nutritious than unfermented bananas and provides a boost of energy for their active lifestyles.
Unfortunately, monkeys that are kept in captivity can have a very tough time adapting to life as pets. They often become bored and destructive, and Leahy warns that these primates can defecate or urinate “whenever, wherever, and on whatever—including your kitchen cabinets.” Grooming is another monkey behavior that can serve many purposes, from showing affection to making peace with other troop members. Some monkeys will lick each other’s fur to remove dirt, parasites, and even toxins from their skin.
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