Squirrel Monkeys: Changes

Key characteristics of squirrel monkeys include their long tails, unique markings, and bright yellow feet. However, with deforestation becoming a larger problem, these animals must adapt. These drawings represent how a squirrel monkey could change if the Amazon Rainforest became a low density shrubland. For starters, they would not live in trees, and therefore would not need their long tails for balance. Also, since they would live on the ground, they would need to be better camouflaged. This means the removal of any bright coloring, such as their yellow feet, and white masks around their eyes. As for eating, oranges and apples would become out of reach, so their diet would revolve around shrubs, bugs, and other things found on the ground. Finally, big ears would improve their ability to listen, which would be crucial since they would be closer to animals that hunt them, such as snakes and wildcats.