Howler Monkey

rainforest · loud animals · South America · primates

Incredible howling ability. Howler monkeys have specially adapted vocal organs that let them produce roars so loud you can hear them from up to three miles away through thick rainforest. Their deep, booming calls sound almost like a roaring engine or a lion's growl.

Spread across two continents. These monkeys live in forests throughout Central and South America, making them the most widespread primate group in that entire region. You can find them in rainforests from Mexico all the way down to Argentina.

Leaf-eating specialists. Howler monkeys mostly eat leaves, which is unusual for primates and gives their digestive system special bacteria to break down tough plant material. They also eat fruits and seeds, which helps spread new plants throughout the forest as the seeds pass through their bodies.

Fifteen different species. Scientists recognize 15 different kinds of howler monkeys, each with slightly different appearances and living in different forest areas. Some are red, some are black, and some are brown colored.

Facing big challenges. Howler monkeys are threatened by habitat loss as forests are cut down, hunting, illegal pet trade, and capture for zoos. Protecting rainforests is crucial to keeping these amazing animals alive in the wild.