Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Primates
- Family
- Cebidae
- Genus
- Sapajus
Habitat
Black capuchins primarily inhabit the Atlantic Forest in southeastern Brazil, preferring dense tropical rainforests, woodlands, and areas up to 1,500 meters elevation. They are adaptable but avoid open areas, often found near rivers and in fragmented forest patches.
Diet
They feed on a variety of fruits, seeds, insects, and small vertebrates like lizards and birds' eggs, often using tools such as stones to crack nuts. Foraging occurs mainly during the day in groups, with a focus on ripe fruits when available.
Behavior
Black capuchins live in social troops of 10-30 individuals with a dominance hierarchy, are diurnal and highly arboreal, spending most of their time in trees. They exhibit complex behaviors like tool use for food extraction and vocal communication for social bonding and warning of threats.
Conservation Status
IUCN status is Vulnerable due to habitat loss from deforestation and fragmentation, with populations continuing to decline.