RED HOWLER MONKEY (Alouatta Seniculus)

  • Height: 44 – 59 cm
  • Weight: 7 kg
  • Best season: August – November
  • Sightings: 95% (hearing)

The red howler monkey (Alouatta seniculus) is a large, arboreal primate native to the Amazon rainforest in South America, particularly in Peru, Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. Known for its distinctive red fur and loud howling calls, which are used for communication over long distances, this species has a prehensile tail that helps it navigate the treetops. Red howler monkeys are herbivores, primarily feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowers. They live in small to medium-sized groups and are an important part of the forest ecosystem.

Red Howler Monkey is very common to hear them howling near to our Eco Lodge early mornings and afternoons , in our day excursions sometimes we are lucky to spot them on the canopies

Ecological Role of the red howler monkey

Leaf and Fruit Consumption

As herbivores, red howler monkeys primarily feed on leaves, fruits, and flowers, helping control plant populations and promoting plant growth by trimming certain species.

Seed Dispersal

While feeding on fruits, they assist in seed dispersal, spreading seeds throughout the forest and contributing to forest regeneration.

Pollination

By feeding on nectar, red howler monkeys may also assist in pollination, supporting the diversity of flowering plants in the rainforest.

Prey for Predators

Red howler monkeys are an important food source for large predators, such as jaguars and harpy eagles, making them a key link in the food web.

Habitat Indicators

Their reliance on healthy, intact forests makes them indicators of the overall health of their ecosystem, signaling any potential environmental threats or habitat degradation.