30 fascinating facts about primates - Primates are the animal most similar to human beings in terms of DNA and intelligence. They are capable of learning quickly, imitating behaviors, and understanding both verbal and non-verbal human communication. Here are 30 fascinating facts about primates that are sure to surprise you!

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Territories - The majority of primate species live in tropical and humid regions. However, the baboon is adapted to live in the drier and hotter regions of Africa.

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Orangutan - The orangutan is the oldest primate. Historians say that this animal has existed for over 12 million years, with the chimpanzee and bonobo following about two million years after that.

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Babies - The orangutan also has the longest childhood of non-human animal in the world. Babies are carried and fed by their mothers until at least six years of age, sometimes longer. Females stay with their mothers until they are adolescents.

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Adaptation - The Japanese monkey lives in the north of the country and makes its home in the mountains. Its coat has two layers that allow it to survive through the cold, snowy winters.They also stay warm in the natural hot springs.

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Smallest - The smallest primate in the world is the Philippine tarsier. It reaches a maximum length of 9 cm and weighs around 200 gm. The species is found in southern Asia and has eyes significantly larger than its brain.

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Largest - The largest primate is the African gorilla. A male can reach 2 m tall and weigh around 250 kg.

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Lemur - The lemur is found exclusively on the island of Madagascar. This primate served as the inspiration for the animated movie, 'Madagascar' and became one of the most-adored characters.

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Immunity - One species of lemur is completely immune to snake venom.

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Golden lion tamarin - This primate from Brazil is incredibly territorial. It will fight to the death anyone who attempts to invade its home.

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Golden lion tamarin - Dominant males lead groups of up to 20 members. The leader is responsible for protecting the group and territory, preventing possible attacks from predators, and reproducing with females.

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Howler monkey - This monkey is the loudest animal in the jungle. Its call can be heard over 3 miles away

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Woolly spider monkey - This primate is native to the jungles of Brazil and is incredibly peaceful and reserved. It shares close social bonds with others of the same species.

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Muriqui - Muriqui are often seen making bridges with their bodies to help their little ones cross trees.

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Rhesus macaque - This species is often used in scientific research. The RH factor in blood was discovered from studies performed on this primate.

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Chimpanzees - Chimpanzees are the most intelligent of all primates. They are able to imitate human gestures and easily work with tools. They can also learn sign language.

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Closest relative - The chimpanzee is also our closest living relative, sharing 99.4% of our DNA.

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Females - Female chimpanzees have an estrus cycle of 34 days. During this time, they can have sex up to a thousand times with various partners.

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Bonobo - Bonobos spend their days having sex and are consequently known as the most peaceful species. They can also reach climax faster than any other animal, in around 15 seconds.

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Bonobo and intelligence - These primates are just as intelligent as chimpanzees. They are able to create and use tools, such as testing the depth of a river with a stick.

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Behaviors - All primates use their hands to walk and support themselves in trees.

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Teeth - Primates from different continents vary in how many teeth they have. South American primates have 36 teeth, while African and Asian primates only have 32.

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Variety - There are more than 250 known primate species in the world.

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Identity - Just like humans, primates have unique fingerprints.

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Habitat - Most species spend the majority of their time in trees, with the exception of baboons. Another interesting fact about primates is that they have an especially large head when compared with the rest of their body.

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Capuchin monkey - This primate is one of the most intelligent and is known for making and using tools.

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Capuchin - They can also recognize themselves in a mirror and learn new skills.

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Barbary macaque - This macaque is the only wild primate species native to Europe.

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Exotic primate - The gelada baboon lives exclusively in the highlands of Ethiopia. Males have a distinctive bright red patch on their chests in the shape of an hourglass. The more vivid the color, the more masculine they are considered among their group members.

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Insatiable appetite - Chimpanzees are not strict vegetarians. They occasionally eat other animals and even other primates.

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Mandrill - The mandrill is the largest monkey on the planet and has uncommon features. Its multi-colored genitalia darkens and intensifies after reaching sexual maturity.

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