Nature has made the world a variety of unusual, sometimes frightening, sometimes funny life forms.These funny creatures can be attributed spider monkeys and amaze anyone who sees them for the first time.Despite the dubious title, these animals is quite nice and attractive in its own way.And it is very interesting from the point of view of Zoology.
Why are they called
His nickname spider monkey of South America got through the fifth point of support - the tail, which is used on a par with its front and rear paws.Additionally, the similarity of arthropod strengthens thin build and long limbs.When the animal clings once all the limbs, especially stretching between a number of standing trees, it creates a clear feeling that in front of you - a huge spider sitting at the center of its web.A similar impression is made by spider monkeys hanging on a tail and pursed his feet: like a spider on a cobweb.In all other animal it is not much different from other fellow primates.
Description animal
spider monkey (pictured above) is the largest representative of the tribe in the whole South American continent.The adult can reach a weight of ten kilograms and grow up to 65 centimeters, while the tail - nearly a meter.Males are smaller than the females a few;forepaws in most members longer, although there are individuals who are equal.In the hands thumb missing or are in their infancy, but on the feet it is well developed.Coating of these animals may be different;hair quite long.Additionally, you can note the small size of the skull, which further increases the similarity with the spider monkeys in the "crucified" position.
unusual tail
most curious spider monkeys structure of its fifth "Sure."Firstly, it is very long - the majority of species of monkeys of this size have a much shorter tail.Secondly, it is extremely powerful and capable without the aid of clutches to hold the body weight.Thirdly, the last quarter of a meter and is equipped with a hairless tail strong and tenacious skin scallops.Moreover, these growths can completely replace the fingers - spider monkeys can perform tail are very thin and precise movements.For example, take the nut out of the hands of man.
Lifestyle
spider monkeys are mostly arboreal and are moved mainly by the tail and front paws.Rear they are usually used as a temporary support or in a state of rest.This day the animals gather in a kind of colony.Typically, these flocks are not too great - ten to twenty individuals, but there are "family", the number of members reaches hundreds.Eating spider monkeys are quite diverse: they use animal and vegetable food, while more than they like seeds, fruit and leaves.Can sneak eggs from nests.
Reproduction of these animals is not limited to any particular season.However, females give birth to rare - once in 3-4 years;moreover, they are hatching only one calf.So that the reproduction of the population has a very low rate.Pregnancy in females lasts an average of 230 days, and then another three years to remain under the care of the baby and the mother for an independent life is poorly adapted.
spider monkeys in nature theoretically live on a fairly extensive territory - from northern Colombia to Mexico.However, for life they need rain forests are being cut down by man for decades.In this connection places suitable for them, there are fewer, and this kind of primate has long been endangered.So now there are attempts to keep it in zoos - fortunately, spider monkeys is quite willing to breed in captivity.Another key to the success of this program is that primates are a good idea, after adapting to the wild.
