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.