The Wonders of God’s Creation
In the preceding issue the red-faced and variegated species of the spider monkey family were reviewed. Today we will consider the wooly (or muriquis, which are in many ways the most remarkable members of this family.
Their homeland is in the forest region of Brazil, close to Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. Much of that forest is now being cut down and many are concerned that these creatures will soon have no place for a home. But efforts are under way to see that no further trees are destroyed.
An adult wooly, weighing over 30 pounds, will measure about five feet in length, including a long fur-covered tail. Except for a dark face, slightly flushed with red, they appear quite light when standing facing you, but the backside is considerably darker. On some there are areas of deep orange as well, and they all have a cute appearance.
Their antics are amazing, such as dangling out in space from a slender limb, just holding on by the tail and one arm. But when a mother leads a little one around she is very careful. To get from one tree to another where the space is too great for it to swing, she will pull the branch to which it clings farther across, or leap to the other tree and work one of its branches across so the youngster can safely reach it.
At other times she will stretch herself over the area, grasping one side with a strong arm and the other side with her tail. Then junior walks across her body to make the trip. On other occasions a mother will be spotted with a little one clinging to her back as she scampers through the trees.
For the most part woolies are peace-loving and playful, fond of swinging back and forth under a high branch, and hanging on only by their tails. But they will chase away other species that try to compete in picking fruit from a tree, which, including the leaves and flowers, represents most of their food.
Wherever seen, monkeys are interesting animals, and we can understand their Creator taking pleasure in creating them. The Bible, God’s Word, does not teach that mankind “evolved” from monkeys and apes. The Bible, which is our only sure and true source of knowledge of such things, plainly teaches us that when God made Adam he was instantly a complete man. If in all things we trust and believe what God says, we are always on safe ground.
ML-08/27/1989