Monkeys and apes do not treat humans as their offspring because they can distinguish between members of their own species and members of other species. While humans and primates share a common ancestor and have some similarities, they have distinct social structures and communication systems that govern their interactions.
Primates, including monkeys and apes, have evolved sophisticated social behaviors and hierarchies within their own species. They rely on various cues, such as physical appearance, scent, vocalizations, and body language, to recognize and differentiate between members of their own species and those of other species.
When a primate encounters a human, they typically recognize that the human is not one of their own kind due to these cues and differences in behavior. Primates have innate instincts to care for and protect their own offspring, and these instincts are not triggered by humans. While some primates might display curiosity, fear, or aggression towards humans, they generally do not perceive humans as their offspring or part of their social group.
Furthermore, human behavior, language, and communication differ significantly from that of primates, making it challenging for them to interpret or respond to human interactions in the same way they would with their own species.
It's important to respect and maintain a safe distance from wild primates as they are not domesticated animals and can act unpredictably or defensively if they feel threatened. In the case of captive primates in zoos or sanctuaries, caregivers and handlers take appropriate measures to ensure their safety and well-being while respecting their natural behaviors and instincts.