Monkeys: Forest Tales
Enjoy a three-dimensional journey into the depths of a tropical forest and gain a new understanding of the diversity and interconnectedness of life on Earth. An elevated walkway takes you directly through the tree canopy, where you will encounter some of the most rare and endangered monkeys on Earth.
One of the liveliest exhibits in Lost Forest is one that is home to both Wolf’s guenons and pygmy hippos. The busy monkeys frolic in the trees and on the sandy beach where the hippos often hang out, giving visitors a chance to see two very different species interact with each other—it’s a hoot to watch!
Mandrills are one of the largest species of monkey in the world. Their furry head crests, manes, and beards are quite impressive, but what will really get your attention is their bright coloration. They have thick ridges along their noses that are purple and blue, their noses and lips are red, and their beards are golden. But that’s not all—those bright colors show up again on the mandrills’ rear ends! Why? Probably for displays, but also so they can follow each other in thick forests.
Mangabeys are some of the most rare and endangered monkeys on Earth. These large, forest-living monkeys are found only in Africa. Our golden-bellied mangabeys have tails that are longer than their bodies, providing balance for them as they scamper through the rain forest canopy.
A huge ficus tree is the centerpiece of the monkey exhibits. Affectionately called the Big Fig, this enormous beauty is over 50 years old. The 220-ton (224-tonne) tree was moved from its old location at the Zoo to its current home. It took 4 weeks to move the tree 214 feet (65 meters) at a rate of 91 inches (231 centimeters) per day!
