Where do monkeys live in the wild? Monkeys: types, features. What types of monkeys are there?

More than 400 species of monkeys live on our planet. Prosimians are also distinguished, which include lemurs, short-heeled and tupai. Primates are most similar to humans and have unique intelligence. Mammals differ significantly from each other depending on their habitat. Some can grow to just 15 cm (pygmy apes), while others reach sizes of up to 2 meters (male gorillas).

Classification of monkeys

Monkeys have been studied by scientists for a long period of time. There are a variety of classifications of mammals, the most common of which is considered to be the following:

• a group of tarsiers;
• broad-nosed primates;
• marmosets broad-nosed monkeys;
• callimiko mammals;
• narrow-nosed group;
• gibbons;
• orangutans;
• gorillas;
• chimpanzee.

Each group has its own bright representatives, unlike anyone else. Let's take a closer look at each of them.

Tarsier, broad-nosed and marmoset monkeys

The first three groups of mammals belong to small monkeys. The smallest of them are tarsier primates:

Sirichta

Sirikhta - the length of the animals is about 16 cm, the weight rarely exceeds 160 g. A distinctive feature of the monkeys is their huge, round, bulging eyes.

Bankan tarsier

The Bankan tarsier is a small primate that also has big eyes with a brownish iris.

Tarsier ghost

The tarsier ghost is one of the rarest species of monkeys, having thin, long fingers and a woolen brush at the end of the tail.

Broad-nosed monkeys are distinguished from other mammals by the presence of a wide nasal septum and 36 teeth. They are presented in the following types:

Capuchin-like animals have a prehensile tail.

Crybaby

Crybaby – this type mammals are listed in the Red Book. The monkeys got their name due to their unique drawn-out sounds that they make.

Favi

Favi monkeys grow up to 36 cm, while their tail is about 70 cm. Small brown primates with black limbs.

White-breasted Capuchin

White-breasted capuchin - distinguished by a white spot on the chest and face of the primate. The brown coloring on the back and head resembles a hood and mantle.

Saki monk

Saki-monk - the monkey gives the impression of a sad and thoughtful mammal, has a hood hanging over the forehead and ears.

The marmoset monkeys include the following types mammals:

Wistity

Uistity - the length of the primate does not exceed 35 cm. A distinctive feature is the elongated claws on the toes, which allow you to jump from branch to branch and grasp them perfectly.

Pygmy marmoset

Dwarf marmoset - the length of the animal is 15 cm, while the tail grows up to 20 cm. The monkey has long and thick hair of a golden hue.

Black tamarin

The black tamarin is a small, dark-colored monkey that grows up to 23 cm.

Crested tamarin

Crested tamarin - in some sources the monkey is called pinche. When the animal is excited, the crest on its head rises. Primates have a white chest and front legs, all other parts of the body are red or brown.

Piebald tamarin

Piebald tamarin - a distinctive feature of the monkey is its completely naked head.

The small size allows you to keep some animals even at home.

Callimikos, snout-nosed and gibbon monkeys

Callimico monkeys have recently been classified as a separate class. A prominent representative of mammals is:

Marmoset

Marmoset - animals united in themselves different features other species of monkeys. Primates have the structure of paws like marmosets, teeth like capuchins and a muzzle like tamarins.

Representatives of the narrow-nosed monkey group can be found in Africa, India, and Thailand. These include Monkeys - animals with fore and hind limbs of the same length; have no hair on the muzzle and stressed areas under the tail.

Hussar

Hussars are monkeys with white noses and powerful, sharp fangs. The animals have a long-legged body and an elongated muzzle.

Green monkey

Green monkey - distinguished by marsh-colored fur on the tail, back and top of the head. Monkeys also have cheek pouches, like hamsters, in which they store food supplies.

Cynomolgus macaque

Cynomolgus macaque is another name for “crabeater.” Monkeys have beautiful eyes brown color and greenish fur, shimmering with grass.

Japanese macaque

Japanese macaques - animals have thick fur, which creates the impression of a large individual. In fact, monkeys are medium in size and their long hair makes them appear larger than they actually are.

The group of gibbon mammals is distinguished by palms, feet, face and ears, which are hairless, as well as elongated limbs.

Representatives of gibbons are:

Silver gibbon

Silver gibbons are small gray-silver animals with a bare face, arms and black feet.

Yellow-cheeked crested gibbon

Yellow-cheeked crested gibbon - a distinctive feature of the animals is yellow cheeks, and at birth all individuals are light, and as they grow older they become black.

Eastern hoolock

Eastern Hoolok is another name for “singing monkey.” Animals are distinguished by white fur located above the eyes of mammals. It seems that primates have gray eyebrows.

Siamang compound-toed

Siamang compound-toed - of this group, the siamang is considered the largest monkey. The presence of a throat pouch on the animal’s neck distinguishes it from other representatives of gibbons.

Pygmy gibbon

Dwarf gibbon - animals have long forelimbs that drag along the ground when moving, so monkeys often walk with their arms behind their heads.

It should be noted that all gibbons do not have a tail.

Orangutans, gorillas and chimpanzees

Orangutans are massive, large apes with hooked fingers and fatty growths on their cheeks. Representatives of this group are:

Sumatran orangutan

Sumatran orangutan - animals have fiery color wool

Bornean orangutan

Bornean orangutan - primates can grow up to 140 cm and weigh about 180 kg. Monkeys have short legs, a large body and arms that hang below the knees.

Kalimantan orangutan

The Kalimantan orangutan is distinguished by its brown-red fur and concave skull in the front part. Monkeys have large teeth and a powerful lower jaw.

Representatives of the gorilla group include the following species of monkeys:

• Coast gorilla - the maximum weight of the animal is 170 kg, height - 170 cm. While the females are completely black, the males have a silver stripe on their backs.
• Lowland gorilla - distinguished by brown-gray fur, habitat - mango thickets.
• The mountain gorilla is an animal listed in the Red Book. They have thick and long hair, the skull is narrower, and the forelimbs are shorter than the hind limbs.

Chimpanzees rarely grow more than 150 cm and weigh more than 50 kg. The species of monkeys in this group include:

Bonobos

Bonobos are recognized as the smartest monkeys in the world. Primates have black fur, dark skin and pink lips.

common chimpanzee

The common chimpanzee has brown-black fur with white stripes around the mouth. Monkeys of this species move only on their feet.

Monkeys also include the black howler monkey, the crowned (blue) monkey, the pale saki, the frilled baboon, and the kahau.

Monkeys are cute and charming creatures that you can admire forever. They refer to great apes. You've probably heard this word more than once, but do you know its meaning? The word "primate" can be translated as "first", although monkeys are superior to other animals only in their better intelligence. As for dexterity, smell, vision and hearing, in many other species they are at a higher level.

Basic information about monkeys

There are many different types these animals, but they are similar in many ways. They all have a pair of arms and legs (like a human), a tail or something similar to it. Monkeys' thumbs are located at a decent distance from the rest, thanks to which they can easily climb trees. Almost all of these animals are omnivores, but they eat a lot of things that a human (also a primate, by the way) wouldn’t like. These include insects, fruits, bird eggs, grains, leaves, and grass. There is also evidence that they even eat crustaceans.

and habitats

How long do monkeys live? It depends on the species. Some live only up to 20 years, while others live up to 60. In this they are very different, but what else do they have in common? The first thing that comes to mind is that all monkeys, without exception, can deftly move from one branch to another. Just imagine: some species do not leave the tree their entire lives. For example, the royal guerilla, which lives in Africa, can only eat flowers and leaves. What a completely healthy diet.

But there are also monkeys who prefer to live only on the ground and completely ignore trees. An example is baboons. Where do monkeys of this species live? They gather in groups of 250-300 individuals and constantly “travel”, not staying long in one place. Older males go first, and younger ones close the column. Their task is to protect the herd from enemies. There are also individuals that tend to stay away; they walk at some distance from the column. Baboons are very united and brave animals. For example, if a leopard is preparing to attack a monkey that has lagged behind the column, 150 individuals may come running to its cry. Of course, the leopard becomes uncomfortable with such an army. But other species are not distinguished by courage and, in case of any danger, scatter in different sides and jump into the trees.

Where do monkeys live?

They mainly live in Asian, African and South American subtropical and tropical regions. Regarding South America, then the territory inhabited by primates stretches from the northern part of Argentina to the southern part of Mexico. It is impossible not to remember also about Africa, where monkeys live. This country (especially just south of the Sahara) is simply teeming with them. Contrary to popular belief, monkeys do not live in Madagascar, only lemurs live there. Let's talk about Asia. There, most monkeys can be found in the southeastern and southern parts. The range extends up to Timor and Japan. One species of monkey (magot) also lives in Europe, and more specifically, in Gibraltar. It is believed that he was brought here by people.

As you already understand, most monkeys live among trees, mainly in forests (any kind: mountainous, wet, etc.). Some species live both on branches and on the ground, such as the gelada.

Where do snow monkeys live?

There is an opinion that all these animals adore warm climate and cannot live in the cold. If we talk about the vast majority of monkeys, then this is true. But don't forget about exceptions.

On the large island of Honshu, which is located in Japan, they live snow monkeys. We can say that they are very hardened - they are not afraid of the cold.

Snow monkeys live in Igodukani (so called famous nature reserve). If we translate this name into Russian, it will mean “Hell Valley”. This area is notable for its great natural diversity: there is both ice and hot water, and geysers. The monkeys living here have a very impressive thick coat of hair, which makes them seem quite thick and powerful, although this is not the case.

These animals do not suffer much from the cold, but, of course, it is unpleasant for them to freeze, and therefore they plunge into a hot spring and sit there for a long time. Where monkeys of this species live, there are areas where steam comes out of the ground; in some ways, such a place resembles a bathhouse. Primates love to sit there and bask. Only in the late afternoon, when it gets a little warmer, do the animals climb out of the water and move away from the steam to dry out. They also eat at this time.

Snow monkeys love to dig into the fur of their relatives, thanks to which it dries faster. But other species often do the same thing. From the outside it seems that they are choosing fleas, although this is not true. Monkeys are clean, they don't have these insects in their fur. In fact, this action is a demonstration of gratitude and love to their relatives.

What do these animals eat?

What do snow monkeys eat? After all, fruits don’t grow in snow. Well, the monkeys are used to doing without them. They trample paths in the snow and walk along them in a line, taking roots, berries, leaves, and insects from the snowdrifts. They also eat pine needles, tree buds and bark.

Now you know where monkeys live, what they eat and how they behave.

No animal attracts as much interest from people as monkeys. And all because they are our closest relatives, both physiologically and intellectually. Monkeys form a separate infraorder of Apes in the order of Primates. Among primitive animals, their close relatives are tarsiers, lemurs, tupai, lorises, and bats, and their distant relatives are insectivorous mammals. This relationship debunks one of the most persistent myths about monkeys as the most perfect creatures on the planet. In reality, they only have developed intelligence, which is due to the specifics of their environment, but the physiology of monkeys is at a rather primitive level.

Crested macaque, or crested baboon(Macaca nigra) is the first species of monkey to go down in human history as the author of selfies.

The body sizes of these animals vary over a very wide range: the smallest monkey - the pygmy marmoset - weighs only 100-150 g, and the largest are gorillas, whose weight can reach 140-200 kg. Male orangutans are almost not far behind them, whose weight in rare cases can reach up to 180 kg (their females are much smaller).

Pygmy marmosets (Cebuella pygmaea).

It is clear that such a difference in size could not but affect appearance. If you look in monkeys common features, then they are united by a rounded skull containing a large brain; small size of fixed ears; brow ridges outlining the eye sockets; large eyes adapted to see in daylight; short mobile neck; muscular long limbs. It is characteristic that all monkeys have a clavicle - a bone that allows their forelimbs to move in different directions, in contrast to the paws of terrestrial quadrupeds, which can move mainly in the “back and forth” direction.

In the primitive broad-nosed monkeys of the New World, the facial part of the skull is relatively poorly developed, so their faces are flat. In the more advanced narrow-nosed monkeys of the Old World, the jaws protrude noticeably forward, for example, in baboons, which do not disdain hunting, this gives an almost canine appearance.

The male hamadryas (Papio hamadryas) yawns to show off his teeth to rivals. Such a grin is often used by baboons to bloodlessly strengthen discipline.

Broad-nosed and narrow-nosed monkeys are called not so much by the size of the nose, but by the direction of the nostrils: in the broad-nosed ones they are spaced apart, and in the narrow-nosed ones they are directed forward. Male proboscis monkeys have a cucumber-like nose - it acts as a resonator, while females of this species have short and upturned noses.

Male proboscis whale, or kahau (Nasalis larvatus).

Rhinopithecus have very short noses with nostrils directed almost upward.

Male black rhinopithecus (Rhinopithecus bieti).

Compared to other animals, monkeys have well-developed facial muscles, since their grimaces perform a communicative function. The vision of these primates is binocular and color, which allows them to quickly determine the distance to objects and accurately identify them. Such vision is vital for the inhabitants of high crowns, who feed on a variety of fruits, leaves, and sometimes small animals.

The monkeys' front paws are five-fingered, with the first (thumb) finger extended, which allows them to grasp tree branches and manipulate objects. To obtain food, monkeys use tools, such as stones, twigs, rolled leaves, with which they break nuts, pull out ants, scoop up water, etc.

Brown black-headed capuchin, or faun (Cebus apella) uses a heavy stone to crush the shell of a hard nut.

However, in some tree monkeys the first finger can be reduced, in which case the paw is used as a hook, that is, the animal hangs on a branch, holding on to it with all four fingers. The hind legs of monkeys also have an extended toe: on the one hand, this allows them to hold on to branches more effectively, and on the other hand, it does not in the least interfere with walking and running on the ground. By the way, monkeys move by resting on the entire surface of their palms and soles, and only great apes (orangutans, gorillas, gibbons, chimpanzees) bend their fingers on their palms when walking, resting on the back of them.

Monkeys' fingers end in nails; in small tree monkeys they sometimes have a vaulted shape, which makes them look like claws from the outside.

The tail is perhaps the most variable organ of monkeys. In great apes and magotes it is completely absent; in pig-tailed macaques it is short and does not play any role in movement; in other species it is long, but functions differently. For example, Old World monkeys use it as a balancer when jumping (and hussar monkeys also lean on it when standing), but among the broad-nosed monkeys there are many species with an extremely prehensile tail. Its lower surface is bare and has papillary lines similar to fingerprints, and the tail itself is very flexible and strong. All this allows its owner to wrap his tail around the branches, literally feeling their surface, and also hang on it. It is not for nothing that woolly, tawny and spider monkeys are sometimes called five-armed, implying that the tail replaces an additional limb for them. True, the smallest monkeys (marmosets, marmosets, tamarins) have a long tail that is not at all muscular; these species use it like squirrels, like a rudder when jumping.

A tawny monkey (Brachyteles hypoxanthus) with a baby moves along an air bridge between the trees.

Monkeys are characterized by thick hair without undercoat, but at the same time their palms, feet and partly their face are always bare. In some species, other parts of the body are naked: in geladas - the skin on the chest, in all baboons - ischial calluses, in uakari - the skull.

A baboon or yellow baboon (Papio cynocephalus) showing black calluses. In other species of baboons, these parts of the body are usually red.

The skin color of different species can be flesh-colored, bright red, blue, black, or even multi-colored, like the mandrill.

The unusual texture of the skin of the Nemean tonkotel (Pygathrix nemaeus) gives it a doll-like appearance.

The fur of monkeys is often colored black, brown, gray, few species are characterized by variegated colors.

Nemean tonzoboli are also among the most brightly colored monkeys.

Many species have decorations in the form of elongated hair growing on the head, face, neck, shoulders and forming, respectively, lush hair, a beard and mustache, a “hood”, and a mane. Such decorations can be characteristic only of males (for example, the mane of baboons) or of both sexes (for example, the mustache of the imperial saguina).

Imperial saguins (Saguinus imperator).

In general, monkeys are characterized by sexual dimorphism, which boils down to brighter colors and larger sizes of males. However, it is expressed differently in different species. As a rule, the strongest differences between males and females can be observed in polygamous species with strict dominance of the leader (baboons, proboscis monkey), less clear - in herd monkeys with less aggressive males (gorillas, macaques), and very insignificant - in monkeys living in pairs , where the male and female equally care for the offspring (marmosets, marmosets, tamarins).

Family of Tibetan macaques (Macaca thibetana).

All monkeys are heat-loving animals that live in the equatorial, tropical and subtropical zones of Asia, Africa, South and Central America. In Europe, monkeys are known only in the extreme southwest of the continent - on the Cape of Gibraltar. Magots live here, but they also came to Europe with the help of people from their historical homeland - North Africa. The other northernmost habitat of these primates is located at Japanese islands. Here Japanese macaques managed to populate even islands from temperate climate, where there is a lot of snow in winter. True, it is not their skin that helps them overcome the cold, but their intellect - these monkeys have learned to warm up in hot springs, where they spend almost the entire winter day.

Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata), while warming up in the water, simultaneously go about their daily activities: eating, picking each other's fur. This group indulges in an afternoon nap.

The favorite habitats of monkeys are dense forests with many fruit trees. A few species have mastered dry woodlands (monkeys), savannas (baboons), and rocky slopes (magots, geladas).

A flock of langurs hides from the torrential torrents flowing down a rocky slope in the Thar Desert. Most monkeys do not like water and even swim only when absolutely necessary.

All monkeys are herbivorous to one degree or another. Some of them adhere to an exclusively vegetarian diet, eating tree fruits, leaves, young shoots, seeds; these species include orangutans, gorillas, and howler monkeys. Others replenish protein reserves in the body by periodically eating eggs and chicks, small lizards, and crabs. These species include macaques, marmosets, and marmosets. Finally, meat plays a significant role in the diet of baboons; sometimes these monkeys even catch such large animals as baby gazelles and small antelopes.

A baboon with a baby gazelle it killed.

The nature of the diet also affects the lifestyle. Herbivorous marmosets, marmosets and gibbons live in pairs or small families, including close relatives (older children, grandparents). These monkeys are very peaceful, do not like fights, and mark their territory either with urine (marmosets) or with special songs (gibbons).

The common-toed gibbon, or siamang (Symphalangus syndactylus), performs its morning song. The pouch under the throat serves as a resonator for it, amplifying the sound.

Herbivorous orangutans living alone and gorillas with small harems are very calm. But these species can stand up for themselves on occasion. In gregarious species the level of aggression is higher. For example, howler monkeys defend their territory and mates with deafening screams, and the calls of these monkeys are the loudest sounds made by animals!

Black howler monkeys (Alouatta caraya) guard the boundaries of their territory.

Omnivorous monkeys and macaques are moderately pugnacious, and baboons are even more aggressive. Troops of these monkeys have a male leader to whom all the others obey. Young males can get along with him only under the condition of complete submission, otherwise they will have to learn the power of his bites the hard way. Females play the role of powerless concubines, the fate of each of them depends on the taste of the leader: the favorites receive maximum care and food, the rest are forced to be content with the leftovers from the table of the stronger and luckier ones. In chimpanzees, intra-pack aggression is relieved either by sexual contact or by organized war against another pack. In the latter case, the winners can taste the meat of the vanquished. By the way, chimpanzees are the only monkeys that hunt other monkeys. And we are talking not only about clan disagreements, but also about monkeys that regularly get in the teeth of their larger “brethren.”

Two male baboons got into a fight. The teenagers felt who would win, and immediately supported the strong one. Although their participation in combat is symbolic, such training will allow them to gain the necessary experience and confidence to aspire to leadership in the future.

Regardless of the level of relationships within the troop, communication between monkeys is accompanied by complex forms of behavior. These animals are not alien to such feelings as friendship, love, envy, resentment, rancor, cunning, anger, sorrow and empathy.

This female chacma, or bear baboon (Papio ursinus), died of a cub, but even after its death she continues to carry the baby’s body on her back until the corpse is completely decomposed.

In case of danger, their calls not only indicate an approaching threat, but precisely identify it: there are separate calls indicating a leopard, poisonous snakes, python, monkey-eating eagle, armed and unarmed man. Thus, monkeys speak primitive speech, which at least contains nouns. In captivity, monkeys cannot reproduce human speech due to differences in structure vocal cords, but are quite capable of mastering sign language or signals.

Gorilla Koko, who speaks sign language, explained to her keepers that she wanted to have a baby. But since the scientists did not allow her to mate, their ward was allowed to adopt the kitten. Coco was very attached to her adopted baby and cried when she had to be separated from him.

Monkeys do not have a specific breeding season. Mating occurs all year round. The female usually gives birth to one baby, rarely - two (twins are more common in tamarins). The newborn is born sighted, covered with short hair, but helpless. At first he hangs on his mother’s stomach, and later moves onto her back. Childbirth occurs in a flock and attracts increased attention to the young mother, her social status increases for some time. Male marmosets and tamarins give birth to females and even eat the placenta; subsequently they take the most active participation in raising offspring: they carry the baby on themselves, and give it to the mother only for feeding time. Males of other monkeys take care of the young, allowing babies and teenagers more than is allowed to ordinary members of the troop, but special attention They do not show this to their own children. The childhood of monkeys is relatively long, which is due to complex forms of behavior - in order to gain the necessary experience, the kids will have to long time watch adults and play with each other.

Baby gorillas and chimpanzees study together the world around us. Although such a meeting is impossible in nature, in captivity the kids quickly found a common language.

Large apes have no natural enemies; only chimpanzees, as mentioned above, can die from the paws and stones of a neighboring flock. The situation is different for medium and small monkeys. Their enemies are primarily wild cats (leopard, jaguar, less often lion or tiger), all kinds of snakes, especially pythons and boa constrictors. At a watering hole, they can fall into the mouth of a crocodile. In South America and on the islands of the Philippine archipelago, monkey-eating eagles hunt monkeys. Their name eloquently makes it clear that they have achieved perfection in the business of catching primates. However, danger from the air can lurk for monkeys in other parts of the world, where they can be attacked by kites, hawks and crowned eagles.

A crowned eagle (Stephanoaetus coronatus) caught a monkey.

Monkeys are susceptible to human infections such as tonsillitis, flu, tuberculosis, herpes, hepatitis, rabies, measles, so in areas of mass tourism they are protected from contact with outsiders.

This baby gorilla was rescued from the hands of animal traffickers in the Congo. While the orphan gets used to his new home, workers at the rehabilitation center wear masks so as not to infect the baby with human infections.

But the human impact on these animals is not limited to just passive transmission of infections. For a long time, people have hunted monkeys: the natives ate their meat, more developed peoples simply destroyed them as pests agriculture, raiding fields and plantations, white colonialists killed gverets for their beautiful fur, gorillas' paws were used to make souvenirs. Finally, with the advent of fashion for “love of animals,” many species of monkeys became desirable pets. Thousands of poachers around the world began to satisfy this demand, catching monkeys in the wild for resale. As a result, many species of monkeys are on the verge of extinction and are listed in the International Red Book.

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Monkeys - most interesting mammals, who are also the closest relatives of a person in wildlife. The diversity of representatives of the Primates order is truly amazing. Indeed, more than 400 species of monkeys have been studied to date. In this article we will look at some types of monkeys with photos and names and get acquainted with the features of each of them.

Monkeys

Almost every person is familiar with monkeys, macaques, baboons, gorillas and orangutans. These representatives of primates are kept in almost every zoo. Enclosures and cages with them are equipped with special play complexes, and both children and many adults love to watch various primates having fun.

Monkeys are highly developed animals. They are able to communicate with each other using different sounds expressing their desires and emotions. Numerous attempts by people to teach monkeys to talk, unfortunately, have not been successful. However, it is worth noting that some representatives of primates exhibit quite good intellectual abilities and can solve not very complex logic problems.

What species of monkeys deserve the most attention?

Rhesus monkey

The rhesus macaque is the most famous and widespread representative of the Macaque genus in nature. Rhesus is no different large sizes or bright colors, but at the same time they are very popular. Representatives of this species of monkeys are kept in almost all zoos. This can be explained by the fact that rhesus dogs are very friendly, are not afraid of people, and sometimes like to swim.

In their natural habitat, they live in small flocks of monkeys of different sexes and ages. Despite the general cohesion of the pack, females and males stay somewhat apart, earning authority in groups of their own sex.

Representatives of this species of apes are typical herbivores, feeding on fruits, seeds and shoots of various plants.

Hamadryad

The hamadryas is significantly larger in body size than the previous species. So, its height can reach one meter, and its body weight can reach 30 kilograms. The coloration of hamadryas stands out strongly from other species of monkeys. The entire body is covered with thick gray fur; nature has left only the face bare, the color of which varies from light to dark brown with a slight red tint.

Hamadryas are often frightened of people and can react extremely aggressively to them. They also persistently protect members of their flock, and especially their family, from dangerous predators.

Black howler

Black howler monkeys are the name of a species of medium-sized monkeys with beautiful fur. Moreover, male and female howler monkeys are very different from each other. Among the most obvious differences is the color of the coat. Males are completely black, while females are reddish-yellow.

Howler monkeys got their name thanks to unique ability make loud, roaring sounds. The call of an adult male, for example, can be heard 7 km away.

Black howler monkeys gather in small flocks, consisting mainly of females, and lead a sedentary lifestyle. Their diet includes various plants, which monkeys can easily obtain if necessary. Howler monkeys also love to eat fruit.

On average, representatives of this species of monkey live 15-20 years in their natural habitat.

common chimpanzee

Common chimpanzees are familiar to anyone who has diligently studied biology at school. These monkeys have a good-natured appearance, a fairly powerful body and a face free of hair. Until recently, chimpanzees were distributed almost everywhere, but for reasons related to human industrial activity, the species' range has decreased significantly.

Chimpanzee flocks can unite more than a hundred individuals. They are able to communicate very well with each other, using not only sounds, but also gestures and certain postures. Like most monkeys, common chimpanzees eat plant foods, although they may occasionally supplement their diet with small animals and insects. Being in a hopeless situation, chimpanzees are able to organize a hunt even for large predator, which poses a danger to a small number of monkeys.

For many reasons on at the moment Chimpanzees are in danger of complete extinction, so more and more individuals are kept in various parks and reserves.

Proboscis

The appearance of the proboscis monkey can be called the most extraordinary and memorable among all monkeys. Very large nose, for which the species received its name, is hallmark males. The female has a neat, slightly elongated and raised nose. Also attracting attention is the bright color of the proboscis, which can vary from orange to dark brown.

This species of monkey, the photo of which you saw above, is certainly famous for its appearance. However, this is not their only feature. Proboscis cats love to swim and do it quite often. It is also not difficult for them to walk 2 to 5 kilometers every day in search of edible food. Proboscis monkeys are considered active and mobile animals.

Experts have different points of view regarding the purpose of the nose of monkeys. Many believe that this feature serves to attract females, but an exact answer has not yet been found.

Eastern gorilla

Eastern gorillas have a menacing and commanding appearance, their gaze filled with strength and masculinity. In addition, eastern gorillas are the most big monkeys of the primates living on Earth today. The height of representatives of this species can reach two meters, and their weight can reach 160-200 kilograms.

The powerful body of monkeys is decorated with a large head, broad shoulders and massive arms. It is noteworthy that the fur of male eastern gorillas turns gray with age, acquiring a silver-gray tint.

Like other apes, eastern gorillas live in groups of up to 40 individuals. Despite the impressive size of gorillas, their diet does not include anything special. They feed on various parts of plants, sometimes eating mushrooms and small animals.

Eastern gorillas are protected, however, unfortunately, cases of animals being killed and illegally hunted are not uncommon.

White-handed gibbon

White-handed gibbons are miniature monkeys whose body weight does not exceed 5 kilograms. Representatives of this species are classified as great apes. Such gibbons are often kept in zoos, where they live in special structures that resemble their natural habitat - tropical forests.

Gibbons of this species are distinguished by their black complexion. They also do not have a tail. White-handed gibbons are one of the few species of monkeys that live their entire lives with one partner. Gibbons live in families, occupy certain territory, which other relatives do not have the right to enter. They eat plant foods.

Sumatran orangutan

Sumatran orangutans, along with eastern gorillas, are quite large mammals. The male grows up to one meter and gains weight up to 60 kilograms. Orangutans also have a powerful body and strong hands that help them move.

Male orangutans lead a solitary lifestyle, while females gather in small groups, which helps them feed their offspring. Sumatran orangutans spend most of their lives in trees, moving with the help of powerful arms and strong fingers. The basis of their diet is the fruits and seeds of plants; Sumatran orangutans also often eat insects.

So, in this article we met the brightest representatives of the Primates order. Now, if you are asked to name the species of monkeys, you can not only easily list the most prominent representatives, but also tell interesting information about them.

Monkeys are considered primates. In addition to the usual ones, there are, for example, semi-monkeys. These include lemurs, tupayas, and short-heeled lemurs. Among ordinary monkeys, they resemble tarsiers. They separated in the Middle Eocene.

This is one of the eras of the Paleogene period, which began 56 million years ago. Two more orders of monkeys emerged in the late Eocene, about 33 million years ago. We are talking about narrow- and broad-nosed primates.

Tarsier monkeys

Tarsiers - species of small monkeys. They are common in southeast Asia. Primates of the genus have short forepaws, and the heel region on all limbs is elongated. In addition, the tarsier's brain is devoid of convolutions. In other monkeys they are developed.

Sirichta

Lives in the Philippines, is the smallest of the monkeys. The length of the animal does not exceed 16 centimeters. The primate weighs 160 grams. With these sizes, the Philippine tarsier has huge eyes. They are round, convex, yellow-green and glow in the dark.

Philippine tarsier brown or greyish. The fur of the animals is soft, like silk. Tarsiers take care of their fur coat by combing it with the claws of their second and third toes. Other claws are deprived.

Bankan tarsier

Lives in the south of the island of Sumatra. The bank tarsier is also found in Borneo, in the rain forests of Indonesia. The animal also has large and round eyes. Their irises are brownish. The diameter of each eye is 1.6 centimeters. If you weigh the visual organs of a Bankan tarsier, their mass will exceed the weight of the monkey's brain.

The Bankan tarsier has larger and more rounded ears than the Philippine tarsier. They are hairless. The rest of the body is covered with golden brown hairs.

Tarsier ghost

Included in rare species monkeys, lives on the islands of Greater Sangihi and Sulawesi. In addition to the ears, the primate has a bare tail. It is covered with scales, like a rat's. There is a woolen brush at the end of the tail.

Like other tarsiers, the ghost acquired long and thin fingers. With them the primate clasps the branches of trees, where it spends most of its life. Among the foliage, monkeys look for insects and lizards. Some tarsiers even attack birds.

Broad-nosed monkeys

As the name suggests, the monkeys of the group have a wide nasal septum. Another difference is 36 teeth. Other monkeys have at least 4 fewer of them.

Broad-nosed monkeys are divided into 3 subfamilies. These are capuchinoides, callimicos and clawedes. The latter have a second name - marmosets.

Capuchin monkeys

Otherwise called cebids. All monkeys of the family live in the New World and have a prehensile tail. It seems to replace the fifth limb for primates. Therefore, the animals of the group are also called tenacious-tailed.

Crybaby

It lives in the north of South Africa, in particular in Brazil, Rio Negro and Guiana. Crybaby enters monkey species, listed in the International Red. The name of primates is associated with the drawn-out sounds they make.

As for the name of the clan, Western European monks who wore hoods were called Capuchins. The Italians called the cassock with it “capucio”. Seeing monkeys with light faces and a dark “hood” in the New World, Europeans remembered the monks.

Crybaby is a small monkey up to 39 centimeters long. The animal's tail is 10 centimeters longer. Weight Limit primate 4.5 kilograms. Females are rarely larger than 3 kilos. Females also have shorter fangs.

Favi

Otherwise called brown. Primates of the species inhabit the mountainous regions of South America, in particular the Andes. Mustard-brown, brown or black individuals are found in different areas.

The body length of the favi does not exceed 35 centimeters, the tail is almost 2 times longer. Males are larger than females, gaining almost 5 kilograms of mass. Occasionally there are individuals weighing 6.8 kilos.

White-breasted Capuchin

The second name is common capuchin. Like the previous ones, it lives on the lands of South America. The white patch on the primate's chest extends to the shoulders. The muzzle, as befits capuchins, is also light. The "hood" and "mantle" are brown-black.

The white-breasted capuchin's "hood" rarely extends over the monkey's forehead. The degree to which the dark fur is raised depends on the sex and age of the primate. Typically, the older the capuchin, the higher his hood is raised. Females “raise” it while still young.

Saki monk

In other capuchins, the length of the coat is uniform throughout the body. The Saki monk has longer hairs on his shoulders and head. Looking at the primates themselves and their photo, species of monkeys you begin to distinguish. Thus, the saki’s “hood” hangs over the forehead and covers the ears. The fur on the capuchin's face almost does not contrast in color with the headdress.

The Saki monk gives the impression of a melancholy animal. This is due to the downturned corners of the monkey's mouth. She looks sad and thoughtful.

There are 8 species of capuchins in total. In the New World, these are the smartest and most easily trained primates. They often feed tropical fruits, occasionally chewing rhizomes, branches, catching insects.

Marmoset monkeys

Monkeys of the family are miniature and have claw-shaped nails. The structure of the feet is close to that of tarsiers. Therefore, species of the genus are considered transitional. Marmosets belong to the higher primates, but among them they are the most primitive.

Wistity

The second name is ordinary. The length of the animal does not exceed 35 centimeters. Females are about 10 centimeters smaller. Upon reaching maturity, primates acquire long tufts of fur near their ears. The decoration is white, the center of the muzzle is brown, and its perimeter is black.

Marmosets have elongated claws on their big toes. Primates use them to grab branches, jumping from one to another.

Pygmy marmoset

It does not exceed 15 centimeters in length. A plus is the 20-centimeter tail. The primate weighs 100-150 grams. Externally, the marmoset appears larger because it is covered with long and thick fur of a brown-golden color. The red hue and mane of hair make the monkey look like a pocket lion. This is an alternative name for the primate.

The pygmy marmoset is found in the tropics of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. With sharp incisors, primates gnaw the bark of trees, releasing their juices. This is what the monkeys eat.

Black tamarin

It does not descend below 900 meters above sea level. In mountain forests, black tamarins have a twin in 78% of cases. This is how monkeys are born. Fraternal children are born only in 22% of cases.

From the name of the primate it is clear that it is dark. The length of the monkey does not exceed 23 centimeters, and weighs about 400 grams.

Crested tamarin

Otherwise called pinche monkey. On the head of the primate there is an erokeus-like crest of white, long hair. It grows from the forehead to the neck. During times of unrest, the crest stands on end. In a good-natured mood, the tamarin is smoothed.

The crested tamarin's muzzle is bare right down to the area behind the ears. The rest of the 20cm long primate is covered in long hair. It is white on the chest and front legs. The fur on the back, sides, hind legs and tail is reddish-brown.

Piebald tamarin

A rare species, lives in the tropics of Jurasia. Outwardly, the piebald tamarin is similar to the crested tamarin, but does not have the same crest. The animal has a completely bare head. The ears appear large against this background. The angular, square shape of the head is also emphasized.

Behind it, on the chest and front legs, there is long white hair. The tamarin's back, legs, hind legs and tail are reddish-brown.

The piebald tamarin is slightly larger than the crested tamarin, weighs about half a kilogram, and reaches a length of 28 centimeters.

All marmosets live 10-15 years. Their size and peaceful disposition make it possible to keep representatives of the genus at home.

Callimico monkeys

They were recently allocated to a separate family; previously they were classified as marmosets. DNA tests showed that callimiko is a transitional link. There is a lot from the capuchins. The genus is represented by a single species.

Marmoset

Included in the little-known, rare species of monkeys. Their names and features are only rarely described in popular science articles. The structure of the teeth and, in general, the skull of the marmoset is similar to that of the capuchin. The face looks like a tamarin's face. The structure of the paws is also marmoset.

The marmoset has thick, dark fur. On the head it is elongated, forming something like a cap. Seeing her in captivity is good luck. Marmosets die outside their natural environment and do not produce offspring. As a rule, out of 20 individuals in the best zoos in the world, 5-7 survive. At home, marmosets live even less often.

Narrow-nosed monkeys

Among the narrow-nosed there are monkey species of india, Africa, Vietnam, Thailand. Representatives of the genus do not live. Therefore, narrow-nosed primates are commonly called Old World monkeys. These include 7 families.

Monkeys

The family includes small and medium-sized primates, with forelimbs and hindlimbs of approximately equal length. The first fingers of the hands and feet of apes are opposed to the remaining fingers, like those of humans.

Representatives of the family also have ischial calluses. These are hairless, worn-out areas of skin under the tail. The faces of the ape-like creatures are also bare. The rest of the body is covered with fur.

Hussar

Lives south of the Sahara. This is the limit of the marmoset's range. On eastern borders In the arid, grassy territories of the Hussars, their noses are white. Western representatives of the species have black noses. Hence the division of hussars into 2 subspecies. Both are included in species of red monkeys, because they are colored orange-scarlet.

Hussars have a slender, long-legged body. The muzzle is also elongated. When the monkey grins, powerful, sharp fangs are visible. Long tail primate is equal to the length of its body. The weight of the animal reaches 12.5 kilograms.

Green monkey

Representatives of the species are common in the west. From there, monkeys were brought to the West Indies and the Caribbean islands. Here the primates blend in with the greenery of the tropical forests, with coats that have a swampy tint. It is distinct on the back, crown, and tail.

Like other monkeys, green monkeys have cheek pouches. They resemble those of hamsters. Macaques carry food supplies in their cheek pouches.

Cynomolgus macaque

Otherwise called a crabeater. The name is associated with the macaque's favorite food. His fur, like that of the green monkey, has a grassy tint. Against this background stand out the expressive, brown eyes.

The length of the Javan macaque reaches 65 centimeters. The monkey weighs about 4 kilograms. Females of the species are approximately 20% smaller than males.

Japanese macaque

Lives on the island of Yakushima. There is a harsh climate, but there are hot and thermal springs. The snow melts next to them and primates live. They bask in hot waters. The leaders of the packs have the first right to them. The lower “links” of the hierarchy are freezing on the shore.

Among the Japanese, the largest is the others. However, impressions are deceiving. If you cut off the thick, long, steel-gray fur, the primate will be of medium size.

Reproduction of all monkeys is associated with sexual skin. It is located in the area of ​​the ischial callus and swells and turns red during ovulation. For males, this is a signal to mate.

Gibbons

They are distinguished by elongated forelimbs, bare palms, feet, ears and face. On the other body, the fur, on the contrary, is thick and long. Like macaques, there are ischial calluses, but less pronounced. But gibbons do not have a tail.

Silver gibbon

It is endemic to the island of Java and is not found outside its borders. The animal is named after the color of its fur. She is grey-silver. The bare skin on the face, arms and feet is black.

Silver is medium in size, does not exceed 64 centimeters in length. Females often stretch only 45. The weight of the primate is 5-8 kilograms.

Yellow-cheeked crested gibbon

You cannot tell from the females of the species that they are yellow-cheeked. More precisely, females are completely orange. On black males, golden cheeks are striking. It is interesting that representatives of the species are born light, then darken together. But during puberty, females return to basics, so to speak.

Yellowcheeks live crested gibbons on the lands of Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos. Primates live there in families. This is a feature of all gibbons. They form monogamous couples and live together with children.

Eastern hoolock

The middle name is the singing monkey. It lives in India, China, and Bangladesh. The males of the species have stripes of white fur above their eyes. On a black background they look like gray eyebrows.

Average weight a monkey is equal to 8 kilograms. The primate reaches 80 centimeters in length. There is also a Western hoolock. He has no eyebrows and is a little larger, weighing about 9 kilos.

Siamang compound-toed

IN great monkey species not included, but is the largest among gibbons, gaining 13 kilograms of mass. The primate is covered with long, shaggy black hair. It fades to gray near the monkey's mouth and chin.

There is a throat pouch on the siamang's neck. With its help, primates of the species amplify sound. Gibbons have a habit of calling each other between families. This is why monkeys develop their voice.

Pygmy gibbon

It can't be heavier than 6 kilograms. Males and females are similar in size and color. At all ages, monkeys of the species are black.

Once on the ground, dwarf gibbons move with their arms behind their backs. Otherwise, long limbs drag along the ground. Sometimes primates raise their arms up, using them as balancers.

All gibbons move through trees by alternating their forelimbs. The manner is called brachiation.

Orangutans

Always massive. Male orangutans are larger than females, with hooked fingers, fatty growths on the cheeks, and a small guttural pouch, like gibbons.

Sumatran orangutan

Belongs to the red monkeys, has a fiery coat color. Representatives of the species are found on the islands of Sumatra and Kalimantan.

Sumatran is included in species of apes. In the language of the inhabitants of the island of Sumatra, the primate’s name means “forest man.” Therefore, it is incorrect to write "orangutaeng". The letter "b" at the end changes the meaning of the word. In the Sumatran language, this is already a “debtor”, and not a forest person.

Bornean orangutan

It can weigh up to 180 kilos with a maximum height of 140 centimeters. Monkeys of the species are like sumo wrestlers, covered with fat. The Bornean orangutan also owes its large weight to its short legs against the backdrop of its large body. Lower limbs By the way, the monkey has curves.

The arms of the Bornean orangutan, as well as others, hang below the knees. But the fat cheeks of representatives of the species are especially fleshy, significantly expanding the face.

Kalimantan orangutan

It is endemic to Kalimantan. The monkey is slightly taller than the Bornean orangutan, but weighs 2 times less. The fur of primates is brownish-red. Bornean individuals have a distinctly fiery fur coat.

Among monkeys, orangutans of Kalimantan are long-lived. The age of some ends in the 7th decade.

All orangutans have a concave skull at the front. The general outlines of the head are elongated. All orangutans also have a powerful lower jaw and large teeth. The chewing surface is clearly raised, as if wrinkled.

Gorillas

Like orangutans, they are hominids. Previously, scientists used this name only for humans and their ape-like ancestors. However, gorillas, orangutans and chimpanzees have a common ancestor with humans. Therefore, the classification was revised.

Coast gorilla

Lives in equatorial Africa. The primate is approximately 170 centimeters tall and weighs up to 170 kilograms, but often around 100.

Males of the species have a silver stripe running down their back. Females are completely black. Representatives of both sexes have a characteristic red marking on the forehead.

Lowland gorilla

Found in Cameroon, Central African Republic and Congo. There the plains settles in mangroves. They are dying out. Along with them, the gorilla species is disappearing.

The dimensions of the lowland gorilla are comparable to those of the coastal gorilla. But the color of the coat is different. Lowland individuals have brown-gray fur.

Mountain gorilla

The rarest, listed in the International Red Book. There are less than 200 individuals left. Living in remote mountainous areas, the species was discovered at the beginning of the last century.

Unlike other gorillas, the mountain gorillas have a narrower skull and thick and long hair. The forelimbs of the monkey are much shorter than the hind limbs.

Chimpanzee

All live in Africa, in the Niger and Congo river basins. Monkeys of the family are not taller than 150 centimeters and weigh no more than 50 kilograms. In addition, in chipanzees, males and females differ little; there is no occipital carina, and the supraorbital carina is less developed.

Bonobos

Considered the smartest monkey in the world. In terms of brain activity and DNA, bonobos are 99.4% close to humans. Working with chimpanzees, scientists taught some individuals to recognize 3 thousand words. Five hundred of them were used by primates in oral speech.

Height does not exceed 115 centimeters. The standard weight of a chimpanzee is 35 kilograms. The wool is dyed black. The skin is also dark, but the bonobo's lips are pink.

common chimpanzee

Finding out how many species of monkeys belong to chimpanzees, you recognize only 2. In addition to bonobos, the common one belongs to the family. He's bigger. Individual individuals weigh 80 kilograms. Maximum height is 160 centimeters.

There are white hairs on the coccyx and near the mouth of the common one. The rest of the fur is brown-black. White hairs fall out during puberty. Before this, older primates consider children to be marked and treat them condescendingly.

Compared to gorillas and orangutans, all chimpanzees have a straighter forehead. At the same time, the brain part of the skull is larger. Like other hominids, primates walk only on their feet. Accordingly, the chimpanzee's body position is vertical.

The big toes are no longer opposed to the others. The length of the leg exceeds the length of the palm.

So we figured it out, what types of monkeys are there. Although they are related to humans, the latter are not averse to feasting on their younger brothers. Many aboriginal peoples eat monkeys. The meat of prosimians is considered especially tasty. Animal skins are also used to make bags, clothes, and belts.