Monkey Facts – Why Do Monkeys Live in Groups?

Whether we are enchanted by their cuteness, marvel at their intelligent nature or respect their formidable stature, monkeys hold our attention and fascination. Closely related to apes, monkeys are primates that typically have a tail and live in trees. Those that inhabit Central and South America are called New World monkeys, while those found in Africa are Old World monkeys.

Most monkeys live in groups — troops made up of females with young and either one male (as with patas monkeys, mandrills, most guenons and many langurs) or several males (as is the case for hamadryas baboons, lisping gibbons and most marmosets). Group living has multiple advantages. For example, it provides an efficient means of searching and securing food. It also allows monkeys to protect their territory and resources through scent markings and vocal displays.

The varying sizes of monkey groups provide more opportunities for socialization and the development of sibling bonds, which can provide emotional support to young monkeys. Larger groups also facilitate the coordination of efforts in activities such as resource defense and grooming.

Monkeys use their long limbs and tails, or prehensile appendages, to cling to branches as they swing from tree to tree in tropical forests. With a few exceptions, such as the pygmy marmoset, which is known for its adorableness, monkeys do not have thumbs and must grasp objects with their fingers and toes.

As a result, they must be careful not to lose their grip while swinging or reaching for food. They are very good climbers and can also move around on the ground, using their feet to walk or by picking up objects with their hands. They have a wide range of facial expressions, including the famous “monkey face,” and they can communicate a lot with body language, as well. For instance, a monkey’s yawning may look like a smile to humans, but it could be an indication of fear or aggression, Live Science reported.