Howler monkeys are large, leaf-eating monkeys of Central and South America, famous for their deafening roars. Different species are black, brown, red or golden.
Interesting facts
- An enlarged hyoid bone in the throat acts as a resonating chamber for their calls.
- Troops howl at dawn and dusk to mark their territory.
- Their strong, prehensile tail can hold their whole body weight.
- Because leaves provide little energy, howlers spend much of the day resting.
- Howler monkeys are the most widespread group of monkeys in the Americas.
- Yellow fever outbreaks have killed many howler monkeys in Brazil and Argentina.
Behaviour
Howlers live in troops of about 4 to 20. They move slowly through the canopy and rarely come to the ground.
Breeding and young
After about six months, a single infant is born. It clings to its mother’s belly and later rides on her back.
Threats and conservation
Deforestation, hunting, the pet trade and diseases such as yellow fever.
Where to see it
- Tikal National Park, Guatemala
- Community Baboon Sanctuary, Belize
- Costa Rica’s national parks
- Pantanal and Amazon, Brazil
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
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