Monkeys are an ape family, though they don’t share the traits of great apes. They are highly intelligent and able to solve complex problems. Their eyes are well-developed.
In addition to their intelligence, monkeys are also highly social animals. They often live in groups, or troops, which can number from a few individuals to thousands. Most monkeys have an alpha male.
Many species live on the ground, in trees, or both. Some even swim across water to reach food. Others are able to climb trees.
Monkeys are members of the Haplorrhini and Simiiformes clades. The New World monkeys are found in Central and South America.
Most species of monkeys live in forests. Their habitats include tropical rainforests. These monkeys are commonly seen running around tree branches.
They are one of the largest mammal groups. Some species, such as the mandrill, weigh 75 pounds or more.
Monkeys can be found in all continents except Australia. Most live in tropical rainforests. There are several hundred species of monkeys. One of the smallest is the pygmy marmoset. It is only five inches long, but can weigh up to 140 grams.
These monkeys are also known for their leaping abilities. They can jump from limb to limb as fast as racehorses.
They are also capable of using tools. Some monkeys have prehensile tails. This helps them to navigate through the branches of a rainforest canopy.
Grooming is important to monkeys. It helps them to keep clean and maintain good social relationships. They groom each other regularly.