Southern black howler monkey in exhibit

Southern Black Howler Monkey

Scientific Name
Alouatta caraya
Class
Mammalia
Order
Primates
Range
Central South America
Habitat
Forests and savannas
Estimated Wild Population
n/a
Southern black howler monkey in exhibit Endangered Status Graph - Near Threatened Endangered Status Graph - Near Threatened

More Information

Southern black howler monkeys are some of the only primates that vary in color from male to female—a trait called sexual dimorphism, which is a broad term that includes differences in size, behavior, and other characteristics between males and females of the same species. Males are black while females are blonde. These primates use their specialized molars to process leafy diets.

Did You Know?

Southern black howler monkeys mark their territory with dung piles and scent markings on branches.

These primates have a strong prehensile tail, enabling them to hang from branches, and a sensitive, hairless underside that allows them to identify texture.

Howler monkeys were named for their territorial roar—a troop howling together can be heard three miles away.

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Species Survival Plan®

We cooperate with other members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to manage the zoo population of this species through a Species Survival Plan®.

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