Muriqui (Woolly Spider Monkeys)
Description
Protected by the following WLT projects:
The Muriqui or Woolly Spider Monkey is the largest New World primate and has recently been divided into two subspecies, the main difference between the two being the presence of a small thumb in the Northern variety. It may eventually be shown that they are separate species.
Endemic to the Atlantic forests of Brazil, Muriquis are found in low lying areas from sea level to around 1,000m. Their long limbs and prehensile tails enable them to be particularly agile amongst the trees.
Threats and Conservation
Muriquis, were once widespread throughout the Atlantic forests, but today only a handful of small populations survive in protected areas. Muriquis are not only threatened by habitat destruction and fragmentation but in the past have also suffered from excessive hunting for food.
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Learn more
- The Northern Muriqui is classified as Critically Endangered by IUCN (See IUCN Red List of Threatened Species for more information on the classification of the Northern Muriqui).
- The Southern Muriqui is classified as Endangered by IUCN (See IUCN Red List of Threatened Species for more information on the classification of the Southern Muriqui).
- Read about the Woolly Spider Monkeys seen in REGUA
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