Mantled Howler Monkey

Baby Howler Monkey

Mantled howler monkeys (alouatta palliate) are found in the tropical forests of Central and South America. These monkeys distinguish themselves by the piercing howl emitted by the males who are letting other troops know their location and stay away. Their howl can be heard for up to 5kms (3 miles) and is most common at dawn and dusk or in response to a threat.

Howlers are very territorial and live in large troops of around 20 individuals. The males are larger and normally a dark brown/black colour, with a golden mane, whilst the females are of a lighter shade of brown. The males weigh in at about 15lbs (7kgs) making them the largest primate in the Americas. They have a prehensile tail which they use as a fifth limb to grab branches and free their arms.

These howlers are most commonly seen in Central America, in particular in the forests of Costa Rica.