mammal · GBIF taxon 2436649
Mantled Howler Monkey
Alouatta palliataAlso known as Golden-mantled Howler, Mantled Howler
Mantled howler monkeys are famous for their thunderous, guttural roars that can carry for several kilometers through the dense forest canopy. These highly arboreal primates spend the vast majority of their lives high in the trees, using their strong prehensile tails as a fifth limb while foraging. Their distinctive mantle of long, golden-brown guard hairs along their flanks contrasts beautifully with their otherwise black coats.
VocalArborealFolivorous
Licensed reference(c) Cephas, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
- diet
- Folivorous (primarily leaves, supplemented by fruits and flowers)
- family
- Atelidae
- threats
- Habitat fragmentation, deforestation, and capture for the pet trade
- life Span
- 15 to 25 years
VU
Can deliver a severe defensive bite if cornered; observe quietly from a respectful distance.
- Listen closely: Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to hear their booming territorial choruses.
- Keep your distance: Never attempt to feed or touch them, as they can bite defensively when feeling threatened.
- Watch the canopy: Look for slow, deliberate movements in the mid-to-upper canopy, where they rest to digest tough leaves.