Animal Profiles
Mammals

Howler Monkey

Alouatta

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Howler monkeys are tree-dwelling American primates known for their powerful calls. This account follows the mantled howler, a dark monkey whose diet is dominated by leaves, fruit and flowers.

Mantled howler (Alouatta palliata), the representative described in this account, photographed in Panama.

Mantled howler (Alouatta palliata), the representative described in this account, photographed in Panama.

Dr. Ariel Rodriguez-Vargas · CC BY

At a glance

Location
The mantled howler, Alouatta palliata, is the representative used here. It occupies tropical forests from southern Mexico through parts of Central America into northwestern South America. Both mature rainforest and regenerating forest can provide habitat.
Habitat
Rainforest
Diet
Herbivore
Food
Leaves, fruit and flowers supply most food, with young leaves often preferred.

Classification

Common name
Howler Monkey
Browse group
Mammals
Scientific name or taxon
Alouatta
Taxon rank
genus
Order
Primates
Family
Atelidae
Genus
Alouatta
Source classification
Mammalia

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • The mantled howler has longer flank hair forming a mantle.
  • Its tail can grip branches.
  • Young leaves are important foods.

Habitat and range

The mantled howler, Alouatta palliata, is the representative used here. It occupies tropical forests from southern Mexico through parts of Central America into northwestern South America. Both mature rainforest and regenerating forest can provide habitat.

Appearance and adaptations

Dark fur covers much of the body, with longer yellowish or brownish hairs along the flanks giving the species its name. The grasping tail has a bare contact pad and provides support as the animal moves and feeds among branches.

Diet and behaviour

Leaves, fruit and flowers supply most food, with young leaves often preferred. Food choices shift as different plants become available. These social canopy monkeys use loud calls to communicate between groups, and their daily activity conserves energy.

Sources

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