Monkeys can be classified as both predators and prey, depending on the species and their ecological context. In general, they are primarily herbivores that mainly eat fruits, leaves, and seeds, but they also consume insects and small animals, which makes them opportunistic predators.
As prey, monkeys are often targeted by larger predators, including big cats, birds of prey, and snakes. Their social structures, characterized by troop living, provide some protection against predators, allowing them to alert each other to dangers.
In summary, monkeys occupy a dual role in the food web: they hunt for smaller creatures to supplement their diet while being a food source for larger predators. This dynamic makes them an integral part of their ecosystems.