Panamanian Night Monkey

Description

The Panamanian night monkey, also known as the Chocoan night monkey, is a remarkable species belonging to the family Aotidae. It was previously considered a subspecies of the gray-bellied night monkey. These primates are renowned for their nocturnal habits, possessing large, expressive eyes adapted for low-light vision, and a distinctive coat that aids in camouflaging within their forested habitats.

Appearance

The Panamanian night monkey exhibits a striking appearance, characterized by a compact body structure and a lush, thick fur coat that ranges in color from gray to brown. Notably, they possess tiny, hard-to-see external ears, which is a distinguishing feature of this species. Their physical attributes, including their unique facial features and large eyes, contribute to their remarkable adaptability to nocturnal activities and life in the dense forest canopies.

Distribution

This species primarily inhabits the regions of Panama and the Chocó, a biogeographical region encompassing parts of Panama and Colombia. The Panamanian night monkey’s distribution is intricately linked to the lush, biodiverse forests within these areas, where they have adapted to thrive in the diverse ecosystems present in this region.

Habitat Preferences

The Panamanian night monkey is predominantly found in mature and secondary forests, with a preference for humid environments at altitudes of up to 3,280 feet (1,000 m) above sea level. These primates are well-suited to a variety of forested habitats, including tropical lowland forests, cloud forests, and gallery forests. Their ability to inhabit such diverse ecosystems showcases their remarkable adaptability to different environmental conditions.

Overall, the Panamanian night monkey’s presence in these ecosystems underscores the significance of preserving the rich biodiversity and forested landscapes within its range, making conservation efforts crucial to the survival of this captivating species.

Facts About Panamanian Night Monkey

1. The Panamanian Night Monkey (Aotus zonalis) is a nocturnal monkey found in parts of Central and South America.
2. It has large brown eyes without a tapetum lucidum, unlike many other nocturnal animals.
3. The species is relatively small, with males weighing approximately 889 grams (31.4 oz) and females weighing about 916 grams (32.3 oz).
4. Panamanian Night Monkeys are listed as near threatened by the IUCN.
5. They have a lifespan of up to 18 years.
6. The Panamanian Night Monkey is also known as the Chocoan Night Monkey.
7. It is a species of night monkey formerly considered a subspecies of the gray-bellied night monkey.
8. The species is known for its distinct vocalizations, which include barks, hoots, and whistles.
9. Panamanian Night Monkeys are arboreal and primarily dwell in the canopy of tropical rainforests.
10. They are primarily frugivorous, but also consume insects, leaves, and flowers as part of their diet.