Primates – Types, Facts & News

Primates are an order of mammals that include lemurs, monkeys, apes, and humans. 

Primates are characterized by their complex social systems, large brains, visual acuity, and, in some species, opposable thumbs. The common ancestor of all primates is believed to have existed approximately 63 million years ago, towards the end of the Cretaceous Period. This coincides with the extinction of the dinosaurs and the dawn of the “golden age” of mammals.

Today, there are well over 300 species of living primates, with the exact number varying due to the use of different classification systems. New species are still being discovered; the most recent being Schneider’s marmoset (Mico schneideri), which was first described in 2021 in northern Brazil. 

Primates Overview

60 Species of Primates

How Many Species Are There?

There are between 376 and 524 living species of primates, grouped into 81 genera, depending on how they are classified. Over 200 species are endangered or critically endangered, according to the IUCN. 

Interestingly, the term “monkey” refers to many different groups of primates, including baboons, gorillas, macaques, marmosets, and gibbons, among others. “Monkeys” are divided into two families, “Old World” and “New World” monkeys. 

Where Do They Live? 

• Tropical rainforests: Primates are primarily found in this biome, making their homes in the trees.
• Temperate forests
• Savannas
• Shrublands
• Wetlands
• Swamps
• Semi-deserts
• Every other biome: Of course, humans populate every biome worldwide.

Types of Primates

Gorillas

These incredible, yet endangered, animals are found around central Africa. Led by dominant males called silverbacks, these gorilla troops share many human characteristics. Click on any of the articles below or go to our dedicated gorillas page to learn more.

Learn More About Primates

Well-Known Primates 

Primate Images

Monkeys vs. Apes

Primate Records

Old World vs. New World Monkeys

7 Fun & Surprising Facts 

1. Opposable thumbs are a unique trait of primates.
2. Most primates are highly social and live in troops, clans, or bands.
3. Several primate species use tools for foraging or cracking nuts.
4. Some primates are nocturnal.
5. Some primate species practice monogamy and mate for life.
6. Primates often display exceptional parental care.
7. Most primates have excellent color vision, which helps them pick out ripe fruits to eat.

Primate News 

Primate FAQs

Latest News on Primate Conservation 

Approximately 65.5% of primate species are threatened with extinction, including 16.9% being critically endangered. Thus, many primates are among the most threatened species worldwide. 

There are several reasons for this. Firstly, most primates live in forest habitats, which are increasingly being destroyed and defragmented by humans both for resources and for land. Second, many primates are illegally captured to be traded as exotic pets, poached for use in traditional medicine, or hunted for their body parts or meat. Next, many primate species are susceptible to the same diseases that humans are, and so outbreaks of diseases such as Ebola threaten their populations. Finally, climate change causes environmental stressors that disrupt their normal behavior like mating and foraging. 

In recent years, with the rising concern for the endangerment of primates, more organizations have dedicated their efforts to primate conservation. The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, World Wildlife Fund, and The Orangutan Project are examples of organizations dedicated to primate conservation. 

Some conservation approaches include habitat restoration, captive breeding and reintroduction programs, education and outreach initiatives, ecotourism development, and sustainable development practices.

Mischief & Mayhem

Many primates are rambunctious and mischievous, somewhat reminiscent of us humans when we were little kids. In places where monkeys like rhesus macaques and vervet monkeys are common, the locals are all too familiar with the naughty antics of these guys. These cheeky creatures can often be caught digging through rubbish bins, hopping into your kitchen window in pursuit of an easy meal, or stealing your backpack that you set down. Luckily, however, they aren’t too dangerous. The only time you’re at any risk of an attack is if you go near their young, as mothers are often incredibly protective. 

It is advisable that you leave primates alone, even when they are your neighbor. Just remember to seal your rubbish, close your windows, and don’t leave anything that might hold food unattended. 

Learn more about mammals:

• Big Cats
• Rodents
• Bears