About Owl Monkeys
Owl monkeys are small New World monkeys. The genus Aotus means "earless," and the owl monkeys were given this name because many species' ears are small and hidden by their fur. They also have a special grooming claw on the fourth digit of each foot.
Owl monkeys are the only true nocturnal monkey. Their large eyes allow them to pick up more light, but they do not see color. They primarily rely on a strong sense of smell and hearing.
Owl monkeys are monogamous, and pairs will mate for life. They do not have a breeding season, but owl monkeys will only have one or two offspring a year. At birth, both parents will provide care for the infant. After the first week, the father takes on the majority of caregiving, while the mother is only involved in nursing. Juvenile monkeys will stay with their parents until they reach maturity, between two and three years old.
A family of owl monkeys can include the mating pair and two to three children. The entire group will sleep in one nest in tree hollows. These hollows provide protection from predators and the elements.
Owl Monkeys at the Akron Zoo
Owl monkeys can be found in the Nocturnal Den in the Legends of the Wild area of the Akron Zoo.
- Apollo - male, born Sept. 13, 2016
- Juniper - female, born Oct. 17, 2014