Have you ever heard of the proboscis monkey? These monkeys are known for their long noses, which is what “proboscis” means. Their noses can grow up to 18 centimeters long, which is about the size of a sub sandwich!
When proboscis monkeys are born, they have cute little upturned noses. As they grow, the noses of female monkeys get a bit bigger. However, the male monkeys’ noses become much larger and look like big, bulbous marbles.
So, why do male proboscis monkeys have such long noses? Well, when they make noises, their big noses help make the sound louder. It’s like when you shout in an empty room and hear an echo. This loud sound can scare away any intruders and also attract other monkeys to have babies with. The bigger the nose, the better it works!
Now you know why the proboscis monkey has such a unique and interesting nose! It’s not just for looks; it helps them communicate and stay safe in the wild.
Measure and Compare: Find a ruler or a measuring tape and measure 18 centimeters. Compare this length to everyday objects like a pencil, a toy, or a book. Can you find something that is about the same length as a proboscis monkey’s nose? Share your findings with a friend or family member.
Sound Experiment: Try making different sounds in a small room and then in a larger room. Notice how the sound changes. Discuss with an adult how the proboscis monkey’s nose might help make their sounds louder, just like how your voice changes in different spaces.
Draw and Imagine: Draw a picture of a proboscis monkey with its long nose. Imagine if you had a long nose like theirs. How would it help you in your daily life? Write a short story or tell someone about your adventures with a long nose.
