About Monkeys

Since 2011 · A field guide to the primate world

Learn All About Monkeys

Species facts, habitats and behavior for every monkey family — from tiny tamarins to the acrobatic spider monkey.

Known Species
~264 worldwide
Smallest
Pygmy Marmoset, 5 oz
Largest
Mandrill, up to 80 lbs
Life Span
10–50 years

Natural History

Old World & New World

Monkeys split into two lineages tens of millions of years ago, and the difference still shows in the face.

Old World monkeys (Cercopithecidae) live across Africa and Asia, with downward-facing nostrils set close together and no prehensile tail. New World monkeys (Platyrrhini) are native to Central and South America, with flatter noses, nostrils set wide apart, and, in many species, a prehensile tail capable of gripping a branch like a fifth limb. More about monkeys in general.

Old World Monkeys
Africa & Asia · non-prehensile tail
New World Monkeys
Central & South America · prehensile tail
Vervet monkey with black face and pale ruff sitting in a tree, an Old World monkey
Old World
Brown capuchin resting on a branch with its tail curled around it, a New World monkey
New World

Monkey Species

Monkey Species

Eighteen monkey families profiled in depth — classification, habitat, diet, behavior and conservation status.

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Monkey Gifts

For the monkey lover in your life

Curated finds for every monkey species, from mugs to ornaments. Browse all monkey gifts.