Just about everyone loves those adorable little, so human-like creatures, the monkeys and apes. There are more than 230 species of primates, one of which many people forget is Homo sapiens, the human. But that may be why we are so attracted to them - because we see so many similarities. Hands with fingers that grasp (most species have toes that grasp easily as well) and a basically round head (enclosing for many species above average intelligence in the animal world) are things to which we all relate. But for all the similarities we seem to appreciate in the primate family, virtually every species of primate - except for humans - is declining in numbers, under siege from habitat loss, hunting and/or collection for the pet trade.
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The smallest primates are the mouse lemur (found only on the Island of Madagascar) and the pygmy marmoset (found in South America). Each of these species weighs approximately 100 grams, about the weight of an orange. The largest primate is the gorilla, found in Africa, often weighing over 400 pounds - with mature males standing six feet or more. In between are all sorts and kinds of monkeys, lorises, lemurs, and apes. Most are found in only a limited area of habitat due to specific survival needs, but humans have figured out how to "bend the rules" of nature. Because of our large brain capacity, complex speech and communication, ability to walk upright, and dexterous fingers, we have forced nature to adapt to us - at least in the short run. |
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One thing is to help protect rainforest habitats where many species of primates call home. There are numerous ways to do this. The easiest way is probably to donate to any one of many conservation organizations. Those of us at SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and Discovery Cove are proud to support conservation work occurring all over the globe - reaching from Africa to Brazil to Indonesia. The organizations we work with provide the expertise and on-the-ground infrastructure to make saving habitats and species a reality. Another way to preserve habitat is to make sure wood planks or products you purchase are certified by programs such as "SmartWood", which signifies the lumber is sustainably harvested, without harming native ecosystems. Something you can do every day is to make sure you are an informed consumer of every product you buy. Many orange juices, hamburger meat, jewelry or trinkets are actually the result of poor environmental practices in other countries. By reducing consumption, or finding eco-friendly alternatives, you can help reduce forest loss. |
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Another thing is to never obtain a primate for a pet. Many species are still collected from the wild, and of those collected, many never make it to a store or marketplace alive. Of those that do, many are sick and in poor condition. Primates are difficult to take care of, needing a specialized diet, plenty of exercise, a clean enclosure and companionship. They are among the messiest, smelliest and most destructive of captive animals. They also share pathogens with humans, making them susceptible to common diseases. People still try to acquire them though, and usually end up wanting to or having to get rid of them after just a few years.
Finally, when we watch documentaries on TV, or laugh at the antics of primates in local zoos, remember we are all part of the same small planet, we are in fact part of the same scientific family. There are six billion of "us", perhaps we could share a little more of this planet with "them".