Planet Earth 08 Jungles Part 06

Squirrel Monkeys and Their Tactics in the Forest

The Strength in Numbers

• Squirrel monkeys are small but rely on their numbers for strength, employing tactics that focus on quick and aggressive actions to secure resources.

Competition for Resources

• Capuchin monkeys are described as the "bully boys" of the forest, competing fiercely for ripe figs, which are a crucial food source available year-round.

• Figs serve as an essential resource not only for capuchins but also for other species like howler monkeys, highlighting their importance during times when other food is scarce.

Territorial Behavior

• The value of fruiting trees leads many monkey species to adopt territorial behaviors; up to 44 different bird and monkey species have been observed utilizing a shift system on a single tree.