Monkeys Are Social Creatures That Live Together in a Troop

Most monkeys are found in tropical rainforests, with a few species living in mountains and in areas where it snows (like our Dania Beach vervets). They have adapted to live on trees or on the ground depending on their environment.

Monkeys are social creatures that typically live together in a group called a troop. These troops can consist of a single female and her young (as is the case for hamadryas baboons, mandrills, and most guenons) or several adult males and their offspring (as with savannah baboons and langurs). Unattached adult males may live separately from these groups. Monkeys also may be found in one-male groups (as is the case for patas monkeys from Africa and species of howler monkeys).

When they live in a group, monkeys can protect each other by presenting a strong front to predators, and they can work together to search for and exploit food sources. This cooperation greatly increases their chances of survival.

Most monkeys are very agile and can leap between tree branches with ease. This is because their hind legs are longer than their forelimbs. They can also use their hands to grasp branches and move around their environment.

Scientists have even been able to help colorblind monkeys see red. They injected a gene into the monkeys that codes for a protein that detects red, and in a matter of weeks, the monkeys were able to tell red from green.

The Monkey Plant is a reminder to stay adaptable in the face of change and challenge. Caring for this plant can be a meditative act that promotes mindfulness and emotional well-being. The Monkey Plant is also a symbol of prosperity and fortune.