Monkeys are so cute and fascinating that it’s easy to see why they capture our hearts, both in the wild and as pets. But before you bring one home, there are several important things to consider.
Monkeys have a lot to teach us about living in the wild, including the ability to use vocalizations and facial expressions to communicate. They often use a variety of pitches to warn others of danger, call mates or other monkeys, and even talk to their young. Staring at another monkey can be a threat, so many monkeys will look down or away instead to avoid fights.
In the wild, monkeys live in large groups called troops. They forage together, following well-known arboreal pathways, and they usually eat the fruits, seeds, leaves, flowers, bark, roots, and insects that are available to them. Some species, such as howler and colobus monkeys, have unique stomachs that allow them to digest leaves better.
Monkeys who are trained to assist humans with daily tasks can be very helpful. They can grab objects that are dropped or out of reach, turn pages, scratch itches, push buttons on remotes or computers, and reposition limbs for wheelchair users. But the most useful monkeys are those that help a person relax or focus. Monkey plants are a perfect fit for the workplace, where they can boost productivity by up to 12%. They also carry the symbolism of wealth, prosperity and good fortune.
 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
    