The largest monkeys that are found in America are howlers. In addition, these are the most high-profile representatives of primates. It was thanks to their sharp cry that they got their name.
Howler monkey: description and features
In the family of chain-tailed monkeys, howlers are the largest. They grow on average up to 70 cm. Their tails are almost the same length as the body. Adult monkeys can weigh up to eight kilograms. Howlers are covered with long hair, which can have different color options. Also at these primates throat bags are very developed.
The howler monkey is distinguished by its powerful fangs, as well as its jaw, which is slightly extended forward. This feature gives the primate an awesome look. The face of the monkey does not have hair, but it has a beard. Each paw of the animal is endowed with five tenacious fingers with flat nails.
Scientists describe five types of howlers, among which two are most common: red howler and Central American.
Monkey tail
A photo of howler monkeys shows how powerful their tails are. This is a very important organ in the life of these animals. For them, the tail is an extra hand, with which the monkeys are free to pick fruits and leaves. Also, with his help, they stroke their cubs or gently touch relatives. But, besides this, the howler’s tail is so powerful that it can easily support the weight of a monkey when it decides to hang upside down on a branch.
It can be noted that this part of the body has an unusual appearance. Bottom at the base of the tail, on the inside, is a section on which there is no wool. Instead, there are patterns and small combs on the skin.
Primacy life
The howler monkey inhabits the humid forests located in the mountainous region of Central and Latin America. The individuals live in separate families, in which there are about 15 to 40 primates. In such communities, there may be one male and a harem of females. But more often it is a family where several males of various ages, as well as females.
You can notice them on trees where there are buds, succulent foliage, seeds, flowers, because this is what is included in their main diet. The main occupations of these monkeys are roaring and feeding. As night falls, primates go to sleep, although some individuals are able to scream even in their sleep.
Daytime Concerts
From day to day with sunrise, the whole herd of monkeys rises to the crowns of huge trees, where a "concert" will be held. Before starting the main lesson, primates are conveniently arranged on branches without making sounds. Most of all, they try to hold their tail on a strong branch. As soon as everyone settles down comfortably, a signal is given, and the soloists, huge males, begin to roar.
Such a cry of a howler monkey is reminiscent of a competition, when each male with all his might blows his throat and yells that there is urine. At the same time, they seriously and attentively look at relatives. But after some time, the voices of “ordinary” monkeys are added to this cry, forming a loud choir. This roar is heard for whole kilometers. But such a concert does not last long. Five minutes later, reaching its highest point, the roar ceases. Now primates can eat breakfast to gain strength for the next singing.
By dinner, the family goes for food in the forest. The photo of monkeys available in our article depicts such a herd. Having gained strength, towards the evening, the family starts its concert again, stunning the surroundings. But it is worth noting that males can scream all day.
Why so loud and why?
This question has long been asked by travelers who have heard the roar of a howler monkey. Over time, after studying the structure of this primate, scientists found that the larynx sacs of the animal, like resonators, are able to several times amplify the sound that a mammal makes.
But the howlers set their concerts not just like that, but with several goals. The first is how they strive to become more attractive in the eyes of females. The second is to show potential enemies and competitors that this territory belongs to them. Thus, this singing is called to guard the lands of their family. But, despite this, tribal battles occur regularly. The fact is that there is serious competition between males over females. So, when a female is ready to mate, and no one in her family answers the call, she gives sounds to another male.
