Black-handed Spider Monkey
Ateles geoffroyi
Class
Mammalia
Order
Primates
Family
Atelidae
Black-handed Spider Monkey
Range
Mexico, Central America, and parts of northern South America, including Ecuador, Guiana, Colombia, Brazil, and Venezuela
Size
Body Length: 13 - 15 in
Tail Length: 20 - 40 in
Weight: 13 - 15 lbs
Habitat
Lowland rain and mountain forests, upper canopy
Young
1 offspring
Gestation: 226-232 days
Diet
Mainly fruits and nuts, some buds and flowers
IUCN Status
Endangered
The name "spider" refers to the monkey's appearance when in the trees and walking on all fours.
Its arms are longer than its legs, aiding in locomotion through the trees.
Prehensile Tail
The spider monkey's long prehensile tail is used as extra hand. The strong tail can hold on to virtually anything, giving the monkey support when suspended in the tall trees where it spends nearly all of its time.
Communication
These primates have a massive range of vocalizations including barks, howls and screams. Spider monkeys also display many forms of visual communication by making faces to each other. A group of spider monkeys is called a troop.
Young
After roughly 7.5 months, usually one young is born. Births occur at two to four year intervals.
Our Animals
Bailey
May 3, 2006
Honey
Jun 10, 2006How You Can Help
This species is endangered mainly due to habitat loss. It also faces threats from the illegal pet trade and hunting.
Check for Sustainable Products. Look for certifications like those from the Rainforest Alliance or the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to help ensure the products were produced in an environmentally responsible manner that did not contribute to deforestation.
Share Information. Use social media and conversations to highlight the threats they face and the role they play in the ecosystem.
