Yes, Mexico is home to native monkey species, specifically New World monkeys. These primates are integral to Mexico’s rich biodiversity and inhabit various forested regions across the country.
Monkey Species of Mexico
Mexico is inhabited by several species of monkeys, primarily the spider monkey and howler monkey. The Mexican spider monkey (Ateles geoffroyi vellerosus), a subspecies of Geoffroy’s spider monkey, is one of the largest New World monkeys, weighing around 7-9 kg (15-20 lbs). This primate is characterized by its long, slender body, disproportionately long limbs, and a prehensile tail that functions like a fifth limb, allowing agile movement through the forest canopy. Their fur is typically brownish-black or black, often lightening on the underside to silvery-white, yellowish-white, or golden brown. They are highly social, often found in groups averaging 20-42 members.
The howler monkeys in Mexico include the Mexican howler monkey (Alouatta palliata mexicana) and the Yucatán black howler monkey (Alouatta pigra). The Mexican howler is known for its distinctive, deep, resonating calls that can be heard for miles, amplified by a large hyoid bone in its throat. They are medium-sized monkeys with black fur. The Yucatán black howler is one of the largest howler monkey species, with males weighing around 7.6 kg (16.8 lbs) and females around 5.7 kg (12.5 lbs). Both sexes have long, black hair and a prehensile tail.
Geographic Distribution and Habitat
Mexico’s native monkey species inhabit specific forested regions, primarily in the southern and southeastern parts of the country. The Mexican spider monkey is found in states such as Veracruz, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Tabasco, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo. These monkeys prefer diverse neotropical forested habitats, including cloud forests, tall evergreen forests, lowland tropical forests, mangrove forests, and dry deciduous forests.
Howler monkeys are also concentrated in southern Mexico. The Mexican howler monkey is found in states like Veracruz, Campeche, Chiapas, Oaxaca, and Tabasco. This species inhabits lowland and montane rainforests, including both primary and regenerated forest areas. The Yucatán black howler monkey is primarily located in southeastern Mexico, specifically in the Yucatán Peninsula, encompassing states like Campeche, Quintana Roo, and Chiapas. These howlers occupy a variety of tropical forests, including lowland, deciduous, semi-deciduous, and evergreen forests, often found at lower elevations in riparian zones.
Conservation and Challenges
Mexican monkey species face significant threats to their survival. The Mexican spider monkey (Ateles geoffroyi vellerosus) is categorized as Endangered by the IUCN, with projections indicating a population reduction of over 50% within the next three generations. The Mexican howler monkey (Alouatta palliata mexicana) is listed as Endangered, and the Yucatán black howler monkey (Alouatta pigra) is also classified as Endangered.
Habitat loss and fragmentation are primary drivers of these declines, resulting from deforestation for agriculture, urban development, and other human activities. Global Forest Watch projects that 34% of the Mexican spider monkey’s habitat could be lost by 2063. Illegal hunting and the pet trade also pose substantial threats; spider monkeys, in particular, are frequently captured for sale, often leading to the death of adult females during infant capture. Annually, an estimated 854 spider monkeys, 38 black howler monkeys, and 54 mantled howler monkeys are removed from the wild for the pet trade in Mexico.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect these species and their ecosystems. Mexico has recognized protected areas within the ranges of these monkeys, although some are small and isolated. Organizations work to rescue monkeys impacted by illegal trade and habitat destruction, providing sanctuary and care. Efforts also focus on establishing conservation sites and addressing threats like deforestation and illegal trade through research and management plans.