Monkeys are a diverse group of anthropoid primates that are most commonly seen in tropical rainforests, Africa’s savannas and snowy areas like Japan. These diurnal mammals are highly active and have a wide range of physical adaptations for their varied habitats.
A monkey’s main energy source comes from fruits, which are high in vitamins and minerals. Some species, such as spider monkeys, have extra-long tails that enable them to grasp fruit high in the trees. Young monkeys learn how to select and eat fruit from their mothers, and by watching adult monkeys in the wild. The repetition of this learning wires the brain to recognize the types of fruit that will meet a monkey’s nutritional needs.
Most monkeys also eat vegetables, such as leafy greens. African colobus monkeys, for example, have specially designed tongues that can digest the tough, cellulose-rich leaves that are part of their natural diet. While fruit and vegetables are the basis of a monkey’s nutrition, protein is required as well, so many species will hunt insects or feed on other small animals that they find.
These omnivorous primates typically live together in groups that are called a troop. Most monkeys are social creatures, and they often communicate with one another by making sounds such as barks, screams, grunts, squeaks, wails, hoots and moans. They also use body language to communicate. For instance, a monkey who bares its teeth might be trying to say “stay away,” while a monkey that bobs its head might be expressing excitement or aggression.