Spider Monkey

rainforest · acrobat · endangered

Rainforest acrobats. Spider monkeys live high up in the tropical forests of Central and South America, swinging through the trees with their long arms and specially adapted tails that act almost like a fifth limb.

Super long limbs. Their arms are so long compared to their body that they look spindly, like a spider, which is how they got their name. This special body shape helps them reach fruit and leaves other monkeys cannot access.

Social and playful. Spider monkeys live together in groups and spend much of their day exploring the canopy with their troop, playing and searching for fruit to eat.

In serious danger. All seven species of spider monkeys are threatened by habitat loss as rainforests are cut down, and the brown spider monkey is critically endangered, meaning very few are left in the wild.

Thrive in captivity. Unlike many wild animals, spider monkeys breed easily in zoos and other human care facilities, which helps scientists protect the species.