Monkeys are known for their playful and mischievous ways, but there is so much more to these intelligent creatures than meets the eye. Scientists have discovered some surprising truths about monkeys that are sure to amaze you.

Firstly, did you know that monkeys have a sense of fairness? In a study conducted by scientists at Yale University, capuchin monkeys were taught to exchange tokens for food rewards. The monkeys were happy to exchange tokens until they realized that their partners were receiving better rewards for the same tokens. Once this became clear, the monkeys started to refuse to exchange tokens until the rewards were equal. This shows that monkeys have a sense of what is fair and can expect to be treated equally.

Monkeys are also great learners. They are known to observe and learn from those around them, even from other species. For example, in a study conducted in the forests of the Ivory Coast, scientists discovered that chimpanzees were using tools to catch ants and termites. They saw another species of monkey – the red-capped mangabey – doing the same thing and observed how it was done. The chimpanzees then started using sticks as tools to catch termites and ants, showing that monkeys have the ability to learn and adapt by observing and copying others.

Moreover, monkeys have social hierarchies. This means that they have a ranking system within their groups, and they can tell who is in charge and who is not. These hierarchies are based on several factors, including age, sex, and physical abilities. Dominant monkeys have access to greater resources, such as food, shelter, and mates. While the subordinate monkeys have to work harder to get access to the same resources.

Finally, monkeys have a sense of self-awareness. In a classic experiment, researchers placed a large red spot on the foreheads of monkeys and then showed them their reflection in a mirror. The monkeys were able to recognize themselves in the mirror and even touched the spot on their forehead, indicating that they were aware that the reflection was their own.

In conclusion, monkeys are much more than the mischievous, playful creatures we often see on TV. They have a complex social structure, a sense of fairness, and the ability to learn by observing others. They are also self-aware and have the ability to recognize themselves in a mirror. Monkeys are fascinating creatures, and the more we learn about them, the more we can appreciate their intelligence and unique qualities.