In this surprising and slightly awkward clip, we observe a behavior that might seem unusual to us—adult or nearly grown monkeys still trying to nurse from their mothers. While many might see this as strange or even “shameful,” in the animal world, behaviors like these are often linked to emotional comfort or stress—not just hunger.
Monkeys, like humans, form deep emotional bonds with their mothers. In some cases, even when they’re old enough to eat solid food, they may continue to seek nursing for comfort, especially during moments of anxiety, fear, or competition with others. It’s not just about the milk—it’s about security and attachment.
For caretakers and wildlife observers, this is both fascinating and a little concerning. It may signal that the young adult monkey hasn’t fully developed independence, or that it’s dealing with stress, social rejection, or insecurity in its environment.
While it may look “embarrassing” to human eyes, it’s important to avoid judgment and instead ask: what does this behavior tell us about the monkey’s emotional needs?
