Monkeys are a diverse group of primates, generally distinguished from apes by the presence of a tail. While apes typically lack tails and are often larger with broader chests, most monkeys possess tails, are usually smaller, and have narrower chests. These intelligent and social creatures exhibit a wide range of physical characteristics and behaviors across the globe.
Global Distribution
Monkeys inhabit a significant portion of the world’s landmass, thriving on all continents except Australia and Antarctica. Their distribution is broadly categorized into two main groups based on their evolutionary history: Old World monkeys and New World monkeys. Old World monkeys primarily reside in Africa and Asia, while New World monkeys are exclusively found across Central and South America.
Monkeys of the Old World
Old World monkeys are native to vast areas of Africa and Asia, including many adjacent islands. They demonstrate remarkable adaptability, thriving in diverse environments such as humid tropical rainforests, expansive savannas, dense shrublands, and even mountainous regions. Some species have also adapted to live in human-altered habitats, including urban areas.
Within Africa and Asia, various groups of Old World monkeys occupy distinct ecological niches. Baboons, for instance, are commonly found in the savannas and open woodlands of Africa, often spending significant time on the ground. Macaques are notable for their widespread distribution, ranging from Gibraltar in Europe across Asia to Japan, and are highly adaptable to both forested and cold, snowy environments. Other prominent groups include the arboreal colobus monkeys, various species of langurs, and vervet monkeys, each specialized for their particular habitats across these continents.
Monkeys of the New World
New World monkeys are exclusively found in the tropical regions spanning southern Mexico, Central America, and South America. These primates predominantly inhabit arboreal environments, making their homes in the canopy layers of tropical rainforests, cloud forests, and dry forests.
A defining characteristic of many New World monkey species is the presence of a prehensile tail, which acts as a “fifth limb” for grasping branches and suspending their body weight. This adaptation is particularly common in groups like spider monkeys, howler monkeys, woolly monkeys, and capuchins, aiding their acrobatic movements through the forest. Other notable New World monkey groups include the small marmosets and tamarins, as well as uakaris, sakis, and nocturnal night monkeys, all contributing to the rich primate diversity of the Americas.