When we think of monkeys, bananas come to mind, but they are only one part of a diet that includes nuts, flowers, fruits, leaves, vegetables, bark, roots, rodents, birds, and invertebrates. Monkeys also have to worry about predators, and many species live in a delicate balance with other wildlife, so any change in their environment can cause them trouble.
While most monkeys don’t have the ability to string together words like we can, they can use body language to communicate. For instance, a monkey’s grinning — or baring their teeth — can appear to be a smile, but it actually signals aggression, Live Science reports. Other signs of aggression include yawning and head bobbing.
In the wild, monkeys must deal with issues such as competition for territory, habitat loss and fragmentation, and hunting for bushmeat or traditional medicine. These threats can deplete populations, causing them to leave their natural home and search for new territory or die from disease.
If you decide to get a monkey, be prepared to spend a lot of money on a large, secure enclosure and a variety of toys and exercise equipment that will keep them busy. In addition, some states have specific requirements for housing monkeys, and homeowners’ insurance companies may require special coverage or even cancel policies if they know you have a monkey.
Primates are a fascinating, but challenging, addition to any household. Be aware that, despite their intelligence and ability to learn, they are still animals that can be destructive, bite, and carry a number of diseases that can infect humans (known as zoonotic diseases). If you are not ready for the challenge, it is best to leave monkeys in the wild.
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