The Cincinnati Zoo is home to a fascinating array of monkey species, each with its own unique adaptations and behaviors. From the agile Angolan Colobus Monkey to the powerful Black Howler Monkey, these primates captivate visitors with their remarkable abilities and intriguing characteristics.
Angolan Colobus Monkey
The Angolan Colobus Monkey is a true master of the treetops. These great leapers can cover distances of over 30 feet as they effortlessly swing from branch to branch. Their lack of thumbs allows them to shape their fingers into a hook-like grip, aiding in their arboreal lifestyle. Additionally, their multi-chambered stomach contains an enzyme that enables them to digest leaves that are too toxic for other species.
Black Howler Monkey
The Black Howler Monkey is a sight to behold, with the males being entirely black in color and larger than their golden-hued female counterparts. These monkeys live in extended family groups and spend the majority of their day feasting on leaves high in the treetops. Their deep jaws and specialized voice box allow them to produce a powerful howl that can be heard from nearly two miles away, used to defend their territory.
Black and White Colobus Monkey
The Black and White Colobus Monkey is a strictly vegetarian primate, equipped with a three-chambered stomach to help digest the large amounts of leaves it consumes. These monkeys rarely venture down to the ground, preferring to spend their time feeding in the canopy. Their reduced thumbs enable them to form a hook-like grip, which aids in their impressive leaping abilities, using their long tails as an air-brake.
Potto
The Potto is a small, nocturnal primate that is considered to be more primitive than other monkey species. These big-eyed, stealthy creatures are known for their quiet and cautious movements as they carefully climb through the rainforest canopy. If threatened, the Potto will hold its position for hours, blending in with the surrounding foliage. Despite their small size, they can deliver a nasty bite if provoked.
General Information
The Cincinnati Zoo is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during the summer months. Admission rates vary depending on age, residency, and membership status, ranging from $19.95 to $29.95 for adults and $11.95 to $21.95 for children.
References
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Angolan Colobus Monkey. Retrieved from https://cincinnatizoo.org/animals-archive/angolan-colobus-monkey/
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Black Howler Monkey. Retrieved from https://cincinnatizoo.org/animals-archive/black-howler-monkey/
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Animals. Retrieved from https://cincinnatizoo.org/animals/
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Black and White Colobus Monkey. Retrieved from https://cincinnatizoo.org/animals-archive/black-and-white-colobus-monkey/
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Potto. Retrieved from https://cincinnatizoo.org/animals-archive/potto/