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Life in the Canopy |
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The howler monkeys are among the largest of the New World monkeys. There are currently nine known species of howler monkeys. Howler monkeys range in size from 56 cm (almost 2 feet) to 92cm (about 3 feet), not counting their tail which can be as long as their bodies. They have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. These monkeys are native to South and Central American forests. They live in groups of usually about 18 individuals. Threats to howler monkeys include being hunted for food and export. Howler monkeys are very vocal and social creatures. Specifically, the name comes from their distinctive loud barking whoop they make, which can be heard over considerable distances. Unlike other New World monkeys, both male and female howler monkeys have “trichromatic color vision”, which means they can see colors like humans. Howlers eat mainly top canopy leaves, together with fruit, buds, and flowers. They move using all four legs and do not swing from branch to branch. They usually hold on to a branch with at least two hands or one hand and the tail at all times. Their tails are strong enough to support the monkey's entire body weight, although they seldom do so. The first 2 fingers of each hand are set apart and are opposable to the other three. They very seldom leave the trees.
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