Black-Capped Capuchins

Black-Capped Capuchins
Cebus apella

Geographic distribution: Northern and Central South America

Capuchins have black tufted fur on their heads. This cap of fur is said to be suggestive of the black peaked cowls of the Capuchin monks. Capuchins were once popular as organ grinder monkeys.

They are considered to be the most intelligent of New World primate and they often use and make tools in the wild. In fact, capuchins are being used in a pioneering program where they aid para- and quadriplegics. They are taught how to do many tasks that their owners cannot do, such as answering the door; getting food out of the refrigerator and books off the shelf.

Capuchins are very aggressive in the wild and will actively hunt for meat. Capuchins are not well liked by most South American farmers since they are notorious for raiding their fields.