There are up to 334 known species of monkeys in the world. Here is a short summary of three of them — all natives of South and/or Central America. Monkeys in this part of the world are called New World monkeys.
The capuchin monkey, with its long tail, usually has a rather pretty dark brown or black color over most of its body with a cream or off-white face and neck. Some people think they are the most intelligent New World monkey. They even use simple tools, such as big rocks, to help them crack open nuts. Babies and young monkeys hang on tight to their mothers, going with her as she swings through the trees, until they learn to move through the trees as she does.
Many years ago, capuchin monkeys were used by street musicians who earned a meager living on the streets playing music on their hand organs. The capuchin, held on a long leash, did tricks to get people’s attention, and it was also used for the important job of collecting money in a tin cup.
Another very smart monkey is the spider monkey. One of the largest of the New World monkeys, it has very long legs, arms and tail, which accounts for its name. Its long limbs make walking look a little awkward but it is one of the most agile of monkeys as it swings through the trees. Its two-foot-long tail is like an extra hand. It can hang from a tree limb with its tail while it searches for food or just enjoys a good swing.
The short-tailed red bald-headed Uakari is about the size of a cat. Its coat of long hair covers its entire body, including its short tail, but its bright red face, like that of nearly all monkeys, is bare. The babies are especially full of mischief and can be difficult for a new mother. But these monkeys are very social, living in large troops, and other monkeys in the troop help with the rascally babies.
The Uakaris live in the Amazon River Basin where the ground is often flooded during the rainy season. The Lord made them so they are good at living and travelling high in the trees, so this doesn’t bother them. During the dry season, they spend more time on the ground, finding different food than what they eat during the rainy season.
Isn’t it amazing to think of the huge variety of animals the Lord made? He must enjoy variety. But what about us? Sometimes we like to think everyone should be a lot like us, but the Lord made every person different. He has an individual interest in you and in those around you. The Lord made each of us in His image. He is kind to us and wants us to be kind to others, as well.
Did You Know?
There are up to 334 known species of monkeys in the world.
Messages of God’s Love 3/17/2024