#silvery lutung

[sitting-on-me-bum]

A silvery lutung, also known as a silvered leaf monkey or silvery langur, pictured within foliage. 

Trachypithecus cristatus

Court Whelan, Ph.D.

[rabbitcruiser]

Monkey Day

Spend a day at the zoo with these cheeky creatures, throw a monkey-themed fancy dress party or fundraise to protect these precious primates.

Monkeys are interesting creatures – cute, mischievous, and sometimes downright obnoxious (anyone who disagrees has obviously never had their laundry torn down by a family of primates when it’s hanging to dry).

Many species of primates are also endangered, and then there are questions of animal rights and the usage of primates in medical research. That’s why there’s Monkey Day — a day that is dedicated to raising awareness about non-human primates.

How to Celebrate Monkey Day

You could simply dress up in a monkey costume and play the part, because there are some people who do just that for Monkey Day and even hold competitions for it.

Spend Monkey Day at the Zoo

Head out to the zoo on this day, because many zoos around the world hold special celebrations for Monkey Day.

Some of these events focus on educational events about monkeys, while others do things like auction off artwork created by chimps and performing intelligence tests on primates.

Even if a local zoo in your area is not hosting an event on this date, we would definitely recommend taking a trip to a zoo and spending some time with the animals.

Attend Special Monkey Day Events

Make sure you take a look at their calendar beforehand, as many have special activities and talks going on.

For example, at Australia’s National Zoo & Aquarium, they hold a number of educational talks and activities that are designed to raise money for endangered species, such as Cotton-top Tamarins in Columbia, as well as increasing awareness.

In Scotland, at the famous Edinburgh Zoo, they raise awareness about the different dangers that primates face by using monkey storytelling.

Monkey Day events are also held at The Faruk Yalçın Zoo and Botanical Park in Darıca, Turkey to raise awareness.

In India, the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park holds a number of different programs so that children can become educated about issues facing wildlife and so that people are encouraged to adopt monkeys. The list doesn’t end there either.

In Pakistan, the Lahore Zoo really goes the extra mile. They hold educational events and art competitions about monkeys, including performances to highlight the threats they face, poetry readings about monkeys, and much more.

Host a Monkey Day Gathering

Consider throwing a Monkey Day party by inviting all of your friends over, perhaps dressed as favorite primates.

Enjoy common activities like watching monkey-themed films such as King Kong, Planet of the Apes, and Lady Iron Monkey, as well as monkey-themed music (The Monkees, anyone?).

Support Monkey Charities

Often, celebrations involve fundraising for primate-related causes and charities, and many organizations around the world dedicated to primates hold Monkey Day events of various sorts.

So when Monkey Day comes around, get out there and do it proper, by monkeying around!

Watch a Monkey Film

Another way to celebrate Monkey Day is by watching a film based on this primate! There are so many different types of monkey films. Of course, the Planet of the Apes series of films is the most well-known, but there are many others.

Disney’s Monkey Kingdom comes highly recommended. Other famous monkeys on screen include the Chain-Smoking Capuchin in The Hangover Part II, Clyde in Every Which Way But Loose, Cheeta in Tarzan the Ape Man, George in Curious George, Joe in Mighty Joe Young, and King Louie in The Jungle Book.

Learn About Monkey Day

Monkey Day was founded to celebrate monkeys, as well as “all things simian,” which includes lemurs, tarsiers, apes, and other non-human primates.

It is a great day when it comes to raising awareness about different types of monkeys and primates around the world, as well as the issues they face and how we can help them.

Environmental activists and animal rights activities are especially vocal and passionate about this date. The same goes for art institutions and visual artists.

Supporters of this date have included the Smithsonian Institution, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Louvre Museum in Paris, London’s National Portrait Gallery, National Geographic, Greenpeace, and Jane Goodall.

History of Monkey Day

While celebrating this animal is an excellent way to get invovled in the day, the origins are a bit unexpected. Back in 2000, Casey Sorrow was an art student at Michigan State University, and he ended up writing “Monkey Day” on his friend’s calendar as a prank.

But then they actually celebrated the occasion with other art students at MSU, and Sorrow later started collaborating with fellow MSU student on the Fetus-X comic strip, where the holiday was mentioned and popularized.

Since then, Monkey Day has been grown in popularity as a day to celebrate primates (including monkeys, but also apes, lemurs, and tarsiers).

Sorrow himself still does much to promote the holiday and the cause of primate welfare, and in addition to the Monkey Day website, he also maintains a “Monkeys in the News” blog which discusses primate-related news around the world and comes out with a list of the top ten primate-related news stories from the past year every Monkey Day.

Since Monkey Day was founded, it really has gone from strength-to-strength. It is now celebrated in many different corners of the world.

This includes Scotland, Turkey, Thailand, Colombia, the United Kingdom, Estonia, Pakistan, India, Germany, and Canada. It has been described by the Washington Post as a day to do the following:

“Learn something about these adorable and highly intelligent primates. Or you could use this day to act like a monkey.”

Monkey Day Timeline

2nd Century AD

Claudius Galenus studies monkeys

In the early days of pioneering medicine Galenus (known as Galen) studied monkeys through dissection, noticing their similarities to humans.

1939

Flying monkeys are featured in film Wizard of Oz

In a strange and frightening portion of the plot, monkeys with wings act as minions released by the Wicked Witch of the West to scare off Dorothy and her friends.

1941

Curious George makes debut in books

As monkeys begin appearing in films and books, one of the most endearing monkeys will last in popularity for at least 80 years–Curious George. Although there are only 7 books in the original series by H. A. Ray, the character lives on through an animated television show, videos and even a 2006 feature film.

1959

First monkey in space

A squirrel monkey, Miss Baker, and a rhesus macaque, Able, were the first monkeys who made a successful launch and return to space. They were sent by the United States Air Force on a Jupiter rocket.

2000

Monkey Day begins

As a little joke, Casey Sorrow, a Michigan State University art student, wrote “Monkey Day” on a friend’s calendar just to be silly. Then, in more silliness, they decided to go ahead and celebrate the day with other art students. Later, Casey Sorrow became the co-creator of the weekly Fetus-X comic strip, which was used to promote the day.

Monkey Day FAQs

How did Monkey Day inspire unique art exhibitions?

Artists Casey Sorrow and Eric Millikin, co-creators of Monkey Day, have integrated the theme into various art forms.

For instance, in 2012, Millikin presented “The 12 Stars of Monkey Day,” a series inspired by pioneering space monkeys.

Such exhibitions blend creativity with primate appreciation.

What are some unusual Monkey Day traditions worldwide?

In Estonia, Tallinn Zoo auctions chimpanzee-created art and conducts intelligence tests on Japanese macaques.

In Pakistan, Lahore Zoo hosts events with children wearing monkey masks and performing related poetry.

How has Monkey Day influenced film releases?

Peter Jackson’s “King Kong” premiered on December 14, 2005, aligning with Monkey Day. This timing connected the film’s theme with the day’s celebration of primates.

Are there any myths associated with Monkey Day?

A playful myth suggests that monkeys causing mischief, like a monkey driving a stolen bus, are honoring Monkey Day traditions. This highlights the day’s lighthearted nature.

How do animal rights organizations participate in Monkey Day?

Groups like Greenpeace use Monkey Day to promote primate habitat protection, encouraging actions such as becoming a forest defender.

What role does Monkey Day play in fundraising efforts?

Celebrations often include fundraising for primate-related causes. For example, in 2008, art shows and auctions benefited animal sanctuaries, featuring human and chimpanzee works.

How do different cultures celebrate Monkey Day?

In India, the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park educates children about wildlife and encourages monkey adoption. In Turkey, the Faruk Yalçın Zoo raises awareness about declining monkey populations.

What are some creative ways people engage with Monkey Day?

Some enthusiasts host monkey-themed costume parties, complete with competitions and monkey impersonations, adding a fun twist to the celebration.

How has Monkey Day been recognized by prominent figures?

Renowned primatologist Jane Goodall has acknowledged Monkey Day, highlighting its significance in promoting primate awareness.

What are some misconceptions about Monkey Day?

Some might think it’s an ancient tradition, but Monkey Day began in 2000, initiated by art students as a humorous observance that gained international traction.

Source

[3onkry5]

Murni feeds Rangda

Murni holds the belief that one must suffer to receive good things. Dil and Murni visiting her extended family in Bali, Murni learns of Rangda’s history and mourns for her. Maybe — hopefully — bringing temporary balance to the demon queen’s infinite life.

[markhors-menagerie]

Silvery lutung (Trachypithecus cristatux)

This arboreal monkey is found in wetland forests, including mangroves, coasts, rivers, and swamps, across several Indonesian islands. They are far more specialised for eating plants than most primates, with ridged teeth and a multi-chambered stomach. Juvenile silvery lutungs are bright orange, a stark contrast to their adult grey colour.

[boiga]

A silvery lutung (Trachypithecus cristatus) in Sabah, Borneo

by Gary Faulkner

[moonrpg]

really quick monkey studies for monkey day!!

[rabbitcruiser]

National Zoo Lovers Day

National Zoo Lovers Day, celebrated on April 8 in the U.S. brings all the zoo animal enthusiasts together to celebrate this significant day! Do you know how many animals were saved by zoos from going extinct? Yes, zoos are more than just conservation sites for endangered species, they also provide educational, research, and entertainment purposes. We can trace the history of zoos back to 4000 B.C. If you love animals, then this holiday is just for you. Visit a zoo nearby to find out about your favorite animals; you can also ask to volunteer at a zoo!

History of National Zoo Lovers Day

In the 7th century B.C, the Greeks had the habit of caging animals. ‘Alexander the Great’ sent many animals caught on his military expeditions to Greece. The earlier Egyptian and Asian zoos were kept mainly for public visitors and secondarily used for research purposes. During the 4th century B.C., the Greeks were more concerned with the research and experiment of captivated animals. The Romans had two different animal collections for arena and research objectives.

After the Roman Empire, zoos faced a downfall, but some private collections existed by Emperor Charlemagne in the eighth century and Henry I in the 12th century. King Philip VI had a menagerie in the Louvre, Paris, in 1333. Many members of the house of Bourbon had animal collections at Versailles. Later in 1519, a zoo was discovered in Mexico, which habituated birds, mammals, and reptiles. It was maintained by 300 zookeepers. In 1752, the Imperial Menagerie was founded at the Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna as the first modern-day zoo.

In 1828, two years after the Zoological Society of London was founded, the collection was created in Regent’s Park. By the mid 19th century, zoos were established worldwide. Among the existing zoos of today, more than 40 zoos are 100 years old. Most of these old zoos are in Europe. Since the end of World War II, there has been a fast and worldwide growth of zoos, many of which serve the purpose of public entertainment and economic gain rather than animal research. The exact number of public animal collections across the world today is unknown, although it is believed to be in the thousands.

National Zoo Lovers Day timeline

3500 B.C.

Hierakonpolis Zoo

The strange animal remains discovered near Hierakonpolis, Egypt's ancient capital, suggest the existence of a huge, exotic predynastic zoo.

1500 B.C.

First Real Zoo

Queen Hatshepsut establishes the first real zoo in Egypt.

30 B.C.

The Rise Of Private Zoos

From the shreds of evidence found in Egypt and Mesopotamia, private zoos show status among the wealthy in Rome.

1874

America’s First Zoo

America’s first zoo opens in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

National Zoo Lovers Day FAQs

Why do we need zoos?

Zoological gardens are needed to preserve biodiversity. Zoos provide a home to exotic endangered animals and have a history of saving many animals from being extinct.

Why are pet animals not allowed in the zoo?

Pet animals are not allowed in the zoo for various reasons. It can affect the health of zoo animals. Pet animals can be agitated by strange sounds, sights, and smells, which can bring out harm to anyone around.

Can I bring home the adopted animal?

Unfortunately, you cannot. The animals in the zoo cannot be brought up in a domestic household. You will be providing financial support for the animal you have adopted.

How to Celebrate National Zoo Lovers Day

Volunteer: Well, the greatest pleasure you can gain on National Zoo Lovers Day is by volunteering at a local zoo. It is a great opportunity to have a close observation of animals.

A family picnic: A great occasion to have an interesting yet informative family picnic. Take this opportunity to explore unique and exotic animals. You could also share some pictures on social media, spreading the word!

Adopt animals: Many zoos across the world provide animal adoption programs. You can show your love for conserving unique and exotic animals by adopting animals in zoos.

5 Fun Facts About Zoos That’s Sounds Too Good To Be True

Morning walks: Chendra, an Asian elephant in Oregon Zoo, likes to take a morning walk to meet her fellow zoo mates.

Entrance fee: 1/160th of a pound was charged as a zoo entrance fee at The Tower of London back in the 18th century; alternatively, visitors can also provide cats or dogs to feed the lions.

A valorous German Shepard: In 1987, a German Shepherd guard dog defeated an escaped Jaguar in Belgrade Zoo — in this valorous action, the dog saved the life of a zoo employee.

Giant pandas: China contains the ownership of all giant pandas worldwide and they are loaned to other countries at a rental price of one million dollars per pair, per year to raise funds for conservation programs in China.

Disk-throwing chimp: In Sweden, a 30-year-old chimp at Furuvik Zoo collects concrete disks to throw at the visitors.

Why We Love National Zoo Lovers Day

Fun-filled knowledge: National Zoo Lovers day reminds us to explore our local zoos. Every year, millions of people visit zoos and learn about many animals. It also provides a great opportunity for friends and families to have a fun time learning together.

Conserving the endangered: One great thing about zoos is conserving the species at the risk of extinction. An imbalance in biodiversity can bring a disastrous impact on the ecosystem. It reminds us of our responsibility towards nature.

Animal welfare: A wonderful day to remind animal enthusiasts to play their part in animal welfare. An opportunity for providing a large platform to gather support across the world.

Source

[rabbitcruiser]

Bronx Zoo, New York City (No. 45)

Silvery lutungs are diurnal, and travel in groups of around 9-40 individuals with one adult male and many adult females communally caring for infants. They rarely leave the trees, which provide them protection from ground-dwelling predators, and rapidly flee if threatened. Each group occupies a home range of 20 to 43 hectares (49 to 106 acres), although these may overlap with those of neighbouring groups. During the day, individuals may travel up to 500 metres (1,600 ft) through the forest, with some forming all-female subgroups that separate from the group containing the male. The entire group shelters in a single tree at night. 

The social structure of silvery lutungs is matrilineal and harem based. Females remain in the group for life, while males leave shortly after reaching adulthood, living in small groups of their own until they can take over an established harem. Within the group, males dominate the females, and females with young dominate those without. However, there is relatively little aggression within the group compared with some related species.

Because group ranges often overlap, different groups frequently come into contact with one another. The adult male protects his group and territory from competing males, communicating his dominance to other males via vocalizations and fighting. In the absence of males, however, females from different groups are more likely to interact peacefully. The most serious conflicts occur when a male intrudes directly on the territory of another male, which may result in the intruder displacing the resident and taking control of the group. In many other primates, such a displacement would normally be followed by the male killing any infants sired by his predecessor; although this may occur in silvery lutungs, it has not been directly observed, and may be less common than in some other species. 

Although less vocal than other closely related species, silvery lutungs make at least thirteen different vocalisations, with the most common being used by adult males defending their territory. Other vocalisations express fear, anger, excitement, and satisfaction, in addition to various calls made by infants.

Source: Wikipedia