Capuchin monkey

Capuchin monkeys are small to medium-sized New World monkeys native to Central and South America.

Capuchin monkeys are small to medium-sized New World monkeys native to Central and South America. They are known for their intelligence, social behaviour, and frequent use of tools. The term refers to monkeys in the capuchin group, commonly placed in the genera Cebus and Sapajus.

Taxonomy and naming

Capuchin monkeys are New World monkeys in the subfamily Cebinae, commonly associated with the genera Cebus and Sapajus. Their common name refers to the hood-like hair pattern that resembles the robes of Capuchin monks.

Description

Capuchins are small to medium-sized monkeys with long tails, some of which are prehensile. They vary in colour from pale to dark brown or black, depending on species.

Habitat and range

They live in a wide range of forest habitats across Central and South America, including tropical rainforests and dry forests. Their distribution extends from Nicaragua south through much of northern and central South America.

Behaviour and diet

Capuchins are active, social primates that spend much of their time in trees. They are omnivorous and are well known for intelligence, problem-solving, and tool use.

Conservation

The conservation status of capuchins depends on the species, with many still considered of least concern but others threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and the pet trade. Several species are listed as endangered or critically endangered.