No one gets left behind.
In the early morning mist, two spider monkeys stretched between the treetops — holding themselves still so the rest of their group could cross.
AN UNEXPECTED SIGHT
Fisherman Antonio De Lima Junior is no stranger to seeing local animals while boating in the waters near his home on the edge of the Brazilian Amazon rainforest. But earlier last month, he spotted more than just wildlife.
He saw a stunning display of solidarity in action.
THE LIVING BRIDGE
In the early morning light, Antonio and his companions noticed movement in the misty treetops. At first, they saw only silhouettes — but soon realized they were spider monkeys stirring at daybreak.
Then the group began to move.
As the fishermen watched, two monkeys stretched themselves between distant branches, forming a living bridge so others could cross.
WHY THEY DO IT
Being highly social animals, often traveling in groups of dozens or more, spider monkeys use this bridging behavior to ensure that all members of their troops remain together as they move through the forest.
The monkeys most capable of crossing gaps unassisted are those who stop to help others.
A RARE AND FRAGILE SIGHT
Such displays of social cohesion among animals are not uncommon — but the sighting that day may well be. Several spider monkey species in Brazil are endangered, threatened by deforestation among other human-led factors, making sightings increasingly rare.
The scene Antonio captured serves as a reminder of why these forests — and the many lives who call them home — are worthy of preserving and protecting.