Old World Monkeys

The Ceropithecidae, or Old World monkeys, are the family of primates that the hominoids(apes) descended from. They evolved in Africa during the Oligocene epoch about 30 million years ago and spread to Asia and Europe. Today all species live in Africa and Asia, but there is a small population of one species, the Barbary macaque, that exists on the Rock of Gibraltar in Europe. These monkeys, like most primates, are usually found in forests but a few species inhabit grasslands and mountains. The family is characterized by non-prehensile(grasping) tails and narrow noses. Many species also have long canines used both for fighting and in the baboons for killing small prey. Aside from the baboons who both eat grasses and fruits and hunt birds, small mammals and young antelope, most Old World monkeys eat mainly plant matter along with insects. Many monkeys from this family are well known for having both brightly colored faces and brightly colored and enlarged buttocks used for display, particularly in males. Social groups are called troops like in other primates and are controlled by one male who fights of rivals and are oriented around the relationships between females; females stay in their home troop and males leave to find another. Some species have many males in a troop and establish hierarchies with grooming; which in all primates is important both for health and hygiene and to build social bonds. Some species of Old World monkey, like Indian macaques and langurs, are tolerated by humans and thrive in urban environments. In some parts of Asia certain species are worshiped; the Hindu god Hanuman is most often seen in the form of a monkey and monkeys are believed to be children of the god. Still many species of Old World monkey are endangered due to deforestation, poaching and disease.