Capuchin monkeys are largely arboreal, spending most of their time in trees.
Capuchin monkeys are native to Central and South America. Their name is derived from the word capuce which is French for "skullcap." They gained this name as the markings on their heads resemble the caps worn by Franciscan monks. Although capuchin monkeys are adaptable and intelligent, some species such as the golden-bellied capuchin and the black capuchin have become endangered or vulnerable. This is due to habitat loss, hunting and capturing these animals for the pet and street entertainment industries.
Habitat Characteristics
Capuchin monkeys live in several South American countries including Paraguay, Costa Rica, Peru, Argentina and Brazil, as well as in Honduras, in Central America. Capuchin monkeys are highly adaptable and can thrive in a range of forest environments and on a varied omnivorous diet. The types of forests that can capuchins inhabit include low-lying forests, mountain forests and rainforests.
Adaptations to Forest Life
Long, thin limbs and a long tail that can hold onto branches help the capuchin monkey to climb and move through trees with ease. These agile animals are also able to jump from one tree to another. A single leap between trees can measure up to 9 feet. Capuchin monkeys have opposable thumbs and big toes. This helps them grasp tree branches firmly and also helps them to grasp vegetation and insects for feeding.
The Role of Capuchins in their Habitat
Capuchin monkeys benefit from the shelter and food that their forest habitats provide. In turn, the forest ecosystem also benefits from the presence of capuchins. They help new plants grow by spreading seeds that they have eaten and distributed through feces. Capuchins also eat nectar which helps pollinate plants and are a source of food for animals higher up in the food chain such as birds of prey, snakes and large cats.
Behavior in their Natural Habitat
Capuchin monkeys spend most of their day foraging for food and sleep in trees at night. Capuchin monkeys use tools to access food. For example, the capuchin monkey may use a sharp stone to break open a shell and access the creature inside. Other sources of food include seeds, fruit, eggs, nuts and insects. One of the few reasons for capuchin monkeys to leave the trees and move along the ground is to find a source of water. Capuchin monkeys are social animals that live in communities of up to 40 male and female individuals. One male usually dominates each group. Capuchins from the same community groom each other and communicate through a range of calls. Capuchins deter mosquitoes by rubbing crushed millipedes on their fur.
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