Monkeys are a type of primate and a cousin to us humans. There are over 250 species of monkeys and new monkeys are still being discovered!
Primatologists are scientists who study primates. Primatologists place monkeys in two groups based on where they live. New World monkeys live in Mexico and Central and South America. Old World monkeys live in Asia and Africa. Apart from where they live, New World and Old World monkeys also differ in other ways, such as the shape of their noses. Some New World monkeys have a prehensile tail, which means they can use their tail to grasp and hold things!
More learning resources
IUCN Primate Specialist Group: Species
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance: Monkey
Wisconsin National Primate Research Center: Primate fact sheets
