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Primate Taxonomy

Page 40

40) Cebus monkeys are found in forested areas throughout most of Central and South America. They eat fruit and leaves, and some have been observed using stones to crack nuts. All are adept at catching insects and even frogs. These intelligent animals have a wide variety of facial expressions used in communicating with each other. The white shoulders of this species offer a good contrast to surrounding leaves, probably as an aid to communication. Black monkey with white face and shoulders feeds in a tree.
Notes: Black monkey with white face and shoulders feeds in a tree.
Scientific name: Cebus capucinus
cebus -- SEE-bus
Member of the Cebid family
These monkeys, also known as capuchins, are considered the most intelligent of the New World primates. They have semi-prehensile tails which can be used to grasp branches, but not to support their entire weight.
Photo © by: Roy Fontaine

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