Tree dwellers
Capuchin monkeys live in the low-lying tropical forests of Central and South America, from Honduras to Columbia.
What’s to eat?
Capuchin monkeys are omnivores so they’ll eat a varied diet including fruits, flowers, insects, nuts, some small vertebrates and even small birds. At the zoo, they enjoy apples, carrots, oranges and a special food called Monkey Chow for added nutrition. When you visit the zoo, you may see the capuchins grab their food with their opposable thumbs, which are similar to human thumbs!
Ready to perform
Capuchin monkeys are diurnal which means they’re awake during the day. They spend their time in troops of 6-20 other monkeys. These animals are extremely intelligent. That’s why the capuchins and other monkeys receive enrichment – toys and other novel objects that provide physical and mental stimulation. You may also notice a mischievous nature as the capuchins interact with each other.
Hitching a ride
After a capuchin monkey is born, the infant lives on its mother’s back for several weeks. Usually only one baby is born at a time, but occasionally capuchin monkeys will have twins.
Danger!
In their forest environment, capuchin monkeys are threatened by natural predators including cats, hawks, and snakes.
Capuchin Traits
- Black or brown fur
- White neck and face
- Semi-prehensile (grasping) tail
- Runs and walks on all fours
