Monkeys are wild animals, and their playfulness and mischief can remind us to lighten up and have fun. They are also symbolic of the power of the mind, and so it is important to use our mental faculties to keep ourselves from getting caught up in negative or fearful thought patterns. In dreams, seeing a monkey may be a reminder that good luck is on its way.
Most monkeys are tree-dwellers and are primarily arboreal, but some species choose to live on the ground in forest or savannah regions. In general, monkeys can be divided into apes and Old World and New World monkeys. The difference between apes and monkeys is that apes have no tails, while most monkeys do. Other distinguishing features include size, the shape of their body and face, and whether they walk upright or on all fours.
Most monkey species live in social groups called troops, which are made up of females and their offspring. Males are able to join troop groups, or harems, at different times in their lives, and they often form unattached bachelor groups as well. Troops travel together to find food during the day and share resources. They communicate with each other through clicking, chattering and yelling at high pitches. Grooming is another way that monkeys express affection and make up after fighting with each other.
In many parts of the world, monkey populations are declining rapidly due to habitat loss and fragmentation, human development, and poaching for bushmeat and traditional medicines. Before you travel to a monkey habitat, it’s important to research lodges and tour companies carefully so that your trip supports responsible wildlife conservation and community engagement. You’ll want to ensure that your guides are well-trained and committed to treating rainforest animals with respect and dignity.