History Animals

Spider Monkey: Acrobats of the Jungle

Spider monkeys (Ateles spp.) are agile primates found in the tropical forests of Central and South America. Named for their long limbs and prehensile tails, they are exceptional climbers and swing gracefully between trees.

Highly social animals, spider monkeys live in groups and communicate using vocalizations, gestures, and even facial expressions. Their diet consists primarily of fruits, but they also eat leaves, seeds, and insects.

Unfortunately, deforestation and hunting pose significant threats to spider monkeys. As key seed dispersers, their decline could disrupt forest ecosystems. Protecting these intelligent and playful creatures is essential for maintaining the biodiversity of their habitats.