From pygmy marmosets to lowland gorillas, the world of primates encompasses a diverse and colorful range of creatures.
Healthy Hue of Red
What’s especially interesting is that this striking skin coloration is more than just a surface-level aesthetic trait. The vibrancy and richness of the red is also a visual indicator of the overall well-being of a monkey, and specifically for monkeys that have contracted malaria.
According to Arkive, “monkeys who have contracted the disease are noticeably paler and are not chosen as sexual partners as they do not have the desired natural immunity to malaria.”
While the bald, red head is usually the first thing people notice, the bald uakari is also distinguished for its long-haired, bushy coat and its remarkably short tail (see above) — a trait that is relatively uncommon among New World primates. the monkey also has an exceptionally low percentage of body fat, which contributes to its unusual, gaunt facial structure.
Because of their specialized arboreal habitats and foraging practices, uakaris are especially vulnerable to human encroachment and deforestation.
The outlook for this species may sound bleak, but there is hope in new research.
The uakaris’ closest relatives, saki monkeys, have shown a remarkable “tolerance and adaptability” to disturbance of their similar arboreal habitats, according to the IUCN.
While the preferred conservation measure is to preserve the uakari habitat, the possibility that this animal might be able to withstand such man-made ecological pressures has many scientists and animal lovers crossing their fingers.
