Monkey

A monkey is a common name for many species of tailed primates, especially those in the New World monkeys and Old World monkeys.

Monkey is a common name for many species of tailed primates, especially those in the New World monkeys and Old World monkeys. Monkeys are generally small to medium-sized, and many live in trees in tropical and subtropical regions. The term is not a single scientific clade in all usage and is often used broadly for simian primates that are not apes.

Classification

In zoological usage, monkeys are usually grouped as Old World monkeys and New World monkeys within the primates. The term is a common name rather than a single universally accepted formal taxon. Scientific usage commonly divides monkeys into these two major groups, and they are distinguished from apes by the presence of a tail.

Physical characteristics

Monkeys are typically small to medium-sized primates with tails, grasping hands, and forward-facing eyes. Many species have flat faces and are adapted for climbing or leaping. These features support their often arboreal lifestyle.

Behaviour and ecology

Many monkeys are social, diurnal, and omnivorous, eating a mix of plant matter, fruit, insects, and other small foods. Their habitats range from rainforest canopies to open woodlands and ground-level environments. While many species are arboreal, some, such as baboons, spend much of their time on the ground.

Distribution

Old World monkeys are found in Africa and Asia, while New World monkeys are found in Mexico, Central America, and South America. Most species live in warm climates, specifically tropical and subtropical regions. Monkeys do not occur naturally in Canada.