The squirrel monkey

Nowadays, the squirrel monkey lives in the tree tops of the Amazon rainforest, travelling through the upper layers of this rainforest. Sunlight, fruit and insects are rich within this rainforest. However, if habitat changes were to occur over a thousand years, like rising temperatures, deforestation or the destruction of natural habitats, this could result in parts of the rainforest converting into savannas or seasonal wetlands. To adapt to these changes, squirrel monkeys could evolve lengthier and stronger legs to cruise through grasslands. Along with slightly webbed hands and feet to move through marshy or flooded areas. Their fur could become shorter and a neutral brown colour to provide camouflage into the dry lands rather than the jungle-like habitat. Stronger claws would help them dig for insects when fruit supply is short. Overall, these changes would increase the chances of squirrel monkey’s survival through major environmental changes.