Geoffroy’s Spider Monkey

Ateles geoffroyi

Did you know that spider monkeys can swing through trees as fact as humans can run on the ground? Their long arms and legs leave a spider monkey well adapted to live in trees. The grasping tail is used a fifth arm to hold onto branches and is strong enough to support the monkey. The destruction of tropical rainforests and threats from hunting pose the greatest challenge to the spider monkey’s survival. Their diet at the El Paso Zoo includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, insects, and primate biscuits.

Fun Facts

• A spider monkey’s name comes from their spider-like appearance!
• Geoffroy's spider monkeys use several forms of visual communication - a curled tail or arched back can signal a threat to other spider monkeys. A head shake is used either as a threat or an invitation to play.
• These animals are herbivores.
• Spider monkeys are highly social. They usually live in groups that average around 30 individuals, but groups of up to 100 have been reported.