Native to the Amazon Basin in countries like Brazil, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana, it is instantly recognizable because of its bare, bright red or pink face that stands out sharply against its thick, glossy black fur. This unusual look makes it very different from most other monkeys, which usually have fur-covered faces.

What really sets the Red-faced spider monkey apart is its incredible acrobatics. Like other spider monkeys, it has very long limbs and an even longer prehensile tail, which acts like a fifth arm. The underside of this tail is hairless and has a gripping pad, allowing the monkey to swing, dangle, or even pick up food with it. They are among the best aerialists of the rainforest, leaping and swinging effortlessly through the canopy. Their long, lanky arms and legs, combined with their tail, give them a “spider-like” look as they move, which is where their name comes from. Unlike smaller monkeys that hop or run along branches, spider monkeys often brachiate—swing hand over hand—or simply use their tails to glide between gaps, covering large distances quickly in the treetops.

And of course, there are plenty of quirky facts about this unusual primate. Because of their bright faces and lanky builds, locals sometimes call them “jungle clowns,” though they’re actually shy and cautious. Their tails are so strong that they can hang upside down with both hands free—almost like circus performers. The red color of their faces comes from blood vessels close to the skin, and individuals with the brightest faces are often the healthiest, which plays a role in mate choice.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Brazil

2019

Amapá, Pará, Roraima

French Guiana

2019

Guyana

2019

Suriname

2019