My Fascination with the Howler Monkey

Photo by Ana Karla Parra

The Howler Monkey, how they cry!

With their screaming growls racing through the sky,

Like a charge from the light brigade.

The sound is very loud,

And they seem pretty proud,

Of the fact that they can be heard for miles.

They live on fruit, loving bananas and figs,

Yet, whatever they find, they eat like pigs,

And scatter the remains on the ground.

They are a fascinating breed,

But be forewarned and take heed,

That getting too close could bring on chaos.

They’ll screech and they’ll cry,

And you think you’re gonna die,

And if you’re close, on you they will pee.

Howler males have a dark coat, ahah!

While the females are blonde, ooh la la,

But neither can be considered handsome.

Each day they don’t move far, 

Staying perched near food sources that are:

Predominantly leaves and fruit.

They swim and they play,

But mainly each day,

They are sluggish from lounging and sleeping.

But each morning I was thrilled,

At the sounds that were trilled

Announcing their mindful awakening.

There are chirps and mews,

As they spread the news,

That it’s time to awaken and eat breakfast.

Soon comes a roar,

Which some people abhor,

But that sound really gets me excited.

All too soon, the jungle is quiet and still,

Disappointed, yet I know that they will,

Start up again early evening.

Photo by Robin Canfield

I don’t think I would want to be a Howler,

Or a monkey that is a prowler,

If I were reincarnated into a creature.

But they are surely one of the most,

Fascinating animals to boast,

Listening and seeing in the jungle.

To the jungle I’d return,

Instead of sitting on the beach to burn,

When going on my next winter vacation.

And if you ever get the chance 

To go to Chiapas for the glance

To hear the noise made by the Howlers,

Be prepared for a surprise,

Cause you’ll think it’s your demise,

As you hear the howl and growl of the monkey.

It’s creepy, and weepy, 

And not at all sleepy,

But know that you are not likely in danger.

Just enjoy the moment of seeing, 

These truly amazing beings,

Without getting wet from their pee.

Don’t watch them very near; 

Cause the sounds will be very clear,

Their loud screams and roars are amazing.

But be prepared for a thrill,

Now that you know the drill,

Of watching and hearing a Howler.