The Social Structure of Monkeys

monkeys

Monkeys are a diverse family of mammals with a variety of social structures. They typically live in troop structures that allow them to travel together to find food and protect them from predators.

Most monkeys are omnivorous and eat fruits and other foliage, such as leaves and grasses. Some species also eat insects, rodents and lizards.

They have large brains that are capable of learning new behaviors and solving problems. They are able to use tools and even learn to eat by using stones or sticks, as reported in Capuchins (genus Cebus).

However, monkeys are not quite as cognitively advanced as their great ape cousins. Their brain-to-body ratios are smaller than those of chimpanzees, gorillas and orangutans.

Communication

Monkeys communicate through vocalizations, facial expressions and postures as well as touch. They do not use the open-ended language humans use, but they can make sounds similar to human speech.

Body language

They can use body language to communicate their mood, as well as warning signs such as head bobbing and bare teeth. When a monkey bares its teeth, it may look like a smile but is actually a sign of fear or aggression.

Grooming

Some species, such as gray titi monkeys from the tropical forests of Bolivia, live in small, monogamous family units. These units consist of a male and female with immature offspring. They groom each other regularly to maintain their bonds. The same social structure can be found in some marmosets and macaques.