Monday, December 6, 2010

Proboscis Monkeys

Another unusual member of the primate family is the proboscis monkey, mainly because the male looks amazingly like Jimmy Durante.

Source: Trip Advisor


Anybody who doesn't believe in evolution - well, need I say more?

The female is somewhat smaller than the male, and blessed with a demure and perkier nose.


Proboscis monkeys are only found in Borneo and live in the mangrove forests and swamps and are actually a pretty good swimmers.  Because of their diet, which is mostly leaves, they have a stomach somewhat like a cow's in that it is compartmentalized.  It also contains bacteria that neutralizes toxins that are present in some of the leaves and helps with digestion.  They live in small family groups of 10 to 30 members.

Unfortunately these guys are endangered due to swamp drainage, hunting and agriculture among other things.   To see a video and learn more, click here.

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