What is a Monkey?

A monkey is a nonhuman primate that lives in the wild. Monkeys are very interesting animals and they have some similarities to humans. For example, they are able to use their opposable thumbs to pick things up. Some of them can even peel a banana. In fact, monkeys are very intelligent and they have great memory. They also show sophisticated social strategies. They are often used in scientific research.

Most of the monkeys that are used in scientific research are Rhesus macaques, Cynomolgus macaques, and Common Marmosets. These monkeys are very important in scientific research because they are able to help scientists understand how the human brain works. They are also able to be trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities such as PTSD, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease.

Monkeys use body language to communicate with each other. They can yawn, for instance, which is a sign of fatigue. They are also able to bare their teeth, which looks like a smile, but this gesture can actually be a sign of aggression. They may also bob their heads or huddle in fear.

Most monkeys live in groups. Some species such as titi monkeys from South America operate in pair-bonded systems, with a monogamous male and female breeding pair forming the basis of the troop. Others, such as capuchins and baboons, have more inclusive social structures with multiple males and females living together in multimale, multifemale troops.

Some monkeys, such as the Japanese macaques at TNPRC, spend their time playing with rocks. This is an activity that serves no survival purpose, but it seems to give them a sense of joy and fulfillment.