The Proboscis Monkey
(Nasalis larvatus)
HABITAT: The island of Borneo in South East Asia
DID YOU KNOW?
– It is an endangered species.
– It is actively hunted by the natives in Borneo and is thought of as a delicacy.
– The word “proboscis” originally meant a nose used for eating, much like an elephant’s, but has evolved to mean simply a large nose.
– The feet of this animal are furry and the second and third toes are joined by a web of skin.
– It has a large belly due to its unique digestive system, which allows it to neutralize toxins in the leaves that it eats.
– Its distinctive nose is larger among the males of this species.