9781422276396

variation in their overall anatomi- cal plan. What does vary enormously, however, is their behavior and the ways in which they adapt to changes in their environment. Intelligence and the ability to learn are the keys to their survival, and in that respect we owe our common ancestors a debt of grat- itude. Without the ability to develop and adapt these characteristics, Homo sapiens would not have advanced in the way the species has. In this book, apes and monkeys are discussed initially in the context of their wider classification as primates. Their adaptations to life will be explored as

well as their fascinating and complex social behavior. Last, although most people today find apes and monkeys intriguing, their relationship to human- kind has not always been mutually beneficial. Some species are hunted for food by indigenous peoples, and hab- itat loss is a major threat around the world. Several species, ranging from squirrel monkeys to chimpanzees and orangutans, continue to be exploited by the pet trade. All these threats are discussed together with positive conser- vation measures and opportunities to observe these fascinating mammals in the wild.

Chimpanzees live in fairly

loose community groups comprising females, juveniles,

and a smaller proportion of males. This

group from West Africa is viewing intruders into their territory with suspicion.

This young orangutan is moving through the trees with complete ease and confidence, using both hands and feet to assist its progress. In bright light the orange-red hair is conspicuous, but in dappled conditions the animals are surprisingly difficult to see.

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