Image: WikimediaAndean night monkeys[1] are a genus Aotus, commonly known as nocturnal monkeys. Species in this genus are the only truly nocturnal monkeys in the world.
- At first glance, you might assume that an Andean night monkey is a prosimian, more at home in the Madagascan tropics than in the cloud forests of the Andes.
- However, the large eyes and small size of this Peruvian night monkey – traits seen in several prosimians – are evolutionary adaptations that allow them to exploit their nocturnal niche without being a primary target for the many nocturnal predators with which they share a common living space.
- ‘Aotus’ means ‘without ears’, which may seem wrong at first glance as its small ears are not immediately visible in the thick fur surrounding its head.
- Their round faces feature a striking black and white pattern framing their large brown eyes.
- Andean night monkeys’ tiny bodies are predominantly grey, with a large rust-orange patch occupying their entire abdomen and inner arms.
- Their long tails help them balance when climbing through the canopy, while the padded, claw-like toes help them grab branches.
