Monkeys are cute, so many people want to own one as a pet. But it’s important to understand all the basics of monkey care before making that commitment. Monkeys can do very well in captivity and zoos but the right conditions are key for them to thrive. They require large areas and challenges that keep them mentally active otherwise they can be destructive and aggressive.
Some species of monkeys live in trees, like New World monkeys, while others spend their time on the ground, including Old World monkeys and apes. Some monkeys, such as marmosets and tamarins, are known as “helper” monkeys because they learn to open and close drawers, turn lights and appliances on and off and dial phones. These tasks allow humans to perform jobs that they would be unable to do themselves.
Most monkeys are omnivorous, eating fruits, seeds, leaves and insects. But some, such as geladas and colobus monkeys, also eat meat (especially young antelope) when they can catch it. Their prehensile tails come in handy for holding on while they gather food from trees and the ground. Monkeys have specialized stomachs that help them digest plant matter.
Some monkeys, such as spider monkeys, live in the rainforest canopy, using four long fingers on each hand to grasp branches and move from tree to tree. They travel through the forest by jumping from branch to branch, a movement called brachiation. Other monkeys, such as the owl monkey, are strictly nocturnal and use their enormous eyes to see in the dark.