Where does the mantled howler live?
The mantled howler is a species of howler monkey from Central and South America. It is found in Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, Guatemala and southern Mexico. It is one of the monkey species most often seen and heard in the wild in Central America. It takes its "mantled" name from the long guard hairs on its sides.
What does the mantled howler eat?
It is the only Central American monkey that eats large quantities of leaves, and it has several adaptations to this diet. Since leaves are difficult to digest and provide less energy than most foods, it spends the majority of each day resting and sleeping. It lives in groups that can have over 40 members, though groups are usually smaller.
Is the mantled howler endangered?
Yes: the IUCN lists it as Vulnerable. The male has an enlarged hyoid bone, a hollow bone near the vocal cords, which amplifies his calls: it is the reason for the name "howler". Howling allows the monkeys to locate each other without seeing each other. Males can weigh up to 9.8 kg.
All 71 threatened animals ›
