Howler Monkeys
Howler Monkeys
Atelidae
The Jungle’s Loudest Voices: Howler Monkeys (Atelidae) are among the loudest land animals on Earth, with calls that can be heard from up to 5 km (3 miles) away. These tree-dwelling primates live in the forests of Central and South America, where their haunting roars serve as territorial warnings and group communication. Their booming calls come from a specialized hyoid bone in their throat, which amplifies their voices. Howlers use this adaptation to avoid physical conflicts, announcing their presence instead of fighting for territory. Living in social groups of up to 20 individuals, they spend most of their time high in the canopy, where they move slowly and deliberately, conserving energy. Unlike many primates, howler monkeys are strict folivores, meaning they mostly eat leaves, along with some fruit and flowers. Their diet is low in energy, which explains their slow-moving and laid-back nature—they often rest for over 15 hours a day, earning them a reputation as some of the laziest monkeys. Despite their adaptability, Howler Monkeys face threats from deforestation and habitat fragmentation. However, their resilience has allowed them to survive in both primary and secondary forests, making them one of the more widespread primate groups in the Neotropics.