Owl Monkeys (Aotinae)

Abstract

The New World subfamily Aotinae consists of the genus Aotus, commonly called owl monkeys. The genus includes 11 species, which range over a variety of forest habitats, from Panama to northern Argentina. Owl monkeys are the only nocturnal anthropoids: all species display either nocturnal or cathemeral activity patterns, and their level of nocturnal activity is influenced by the amount of moonlight. All species are small-bodied, arboreal, and lack prominent sexual dimorphism. Two aspects of owl monkey behavior make them relatively unique among primates: they are socially monogamous and exhibit intensive paternal care. All species live in small social groups of two to six individuals, which occupy a home range that includes a core area of exclusive use.