Proboscis Monkeys
Nasalis larvatus
Proboscis monkeys are Old World monkeys found only in Borneo's coastal mangroves, instantly recognizable by the male's oversized, pendulous nose.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammalia
- Order
- Primates
- Family
- Cercopithecidae
Other Names
Long-nosed Monkey, Dutch Monkey
Size
22–30 inches long; 15–53 lbs. Males much larger than females, with a far bigger nose.
Description
Reddish-brown fur, a potbelly, and, in males, a large pendulous nose that amplifies vocal calls.
Behavior
Semi-terrestrial and arboreal, and an unusually strong swimmer for a monkey, with partially webbed feet.
Diet
Leaves, unripe fruit and seeds.
Communication
Honking nasal calls, louder in males with larger noses.
Habitat
Coastal mangrove and riverine forests, found only on the island of Borneo.
Life Cycle & Society
- Gestation
- ~166 days
- Sexually Mature
- ~5 years
- Life Span
- ~20 years in the wild
- Athleticism
- Leaps into rivers from tree branches to evade predators
- Conservation Status
- Endangered
Proboscis monkeys typically live in harem groups of one adult male and several females with their young. They are strong, willing swimmers and will readily cross rivers and channels that most primates avoid.
