What is a Monkey?

monkey

The word “monkey” is often used to describe apes like chimpanzees and orangutans. But in fact, the word can also apply to other monkey species and non-ape mammals that have a tail (like raccoons and squirrel monkeys).

Monkeys are intelligent animals that show remarkable ingenuity and problem-solving abilities, especially when compared to other mammals. They have good memories, complex vocal systems and sophisticated social strategies. These traits make them ideal subjects for studies on human physiology and behavior. They are especially popular in biomedical research because of their close anatomy and genetic similarities with humans.

Most monkeys are arboreal, spending most of their time in trees. But some – such as geladas and Japanese macaques – inhabit mountains or savannas. Many Old World monkeys have hind legs that are longer than their forelimbs, which gives them incredible jumping skills and allows them to traverse the canopy with ease. They carry pouches in their cheeks to hold nuts, leaves, flowers, seeds and insects as they forage throughout the day. They can use their tails to grasp branches or hang from them. They can also use a special chambered stomach to ferment leaves and digest animal foods.

In addition, they use body language to communicate with one another. For example, monkeys who bare their teeth may be showing they’re happy but can also indicate aggression or fear, Live Science previously reported. They can even feign illness to get people to take care of them. As such, they’re used for medical testing before new drugs are tested in humans and other animals.