BLACK MANGABEY
Lophocebus aterrimus
DESCRIPTION
The Black Mangabey, or Lophocebus aterrimus, is a medium-sized primate characterized by its dark black fur and distinctive long tail. They have a unique facial structure with a pronounced brow ridge and a flat nose, which gives them a somewhat expressive appearance. These monkeys are known for their social behavior, often forming groups that engage in playful interactions and grooming, which strengthens social bonds within the troop.
FUN FACTS
- Black Mangabeys are known for their playful nature, often engaging in acrobatic displays while swinging through the trees
- They have a unique social structure that allows them to form strong bonds, which is essential for their survival in the wild.| These monkeys have a fascinating grooming behavior, where they spend a significant amount of time cleaning each other’s fur
- This not only helps maintain hygiene but also reinforces social ties within the group
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-25 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
Average Weight8-12 kg
Average Length50-70 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureThey live in groups, often consisting of multiple males and females, which helps in cooperative foraging and protection against predators.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round, with peaks depending on local conditions
- Habitat
- Black Mangabeys inhabit tropical and subtropical forests, particularly in areas with dense vegetation. They are arboreal, spending much of their time in trees, which provides them with food and protection from predators.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest
- Native Range
- They are native to the forests of West Africa, particularly in countries like Gabon, Cameroon, and the Republic of the Congo.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Gabon, Cameroon, Republic of the Congo
- Diet
- Black Mangabeys primarily consume fruits, seeds, and leaves, but they also eat insects and small animals occasionally. Their diet is diverse, allowing them to adapt to varying food availability in their habitat.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- Fruits and seeds
- Social Structure
- They live in groups, often consisting of multiple males and females, which helps in cooperative foraging and protection against predators.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 10-30
- Territorial
- 1
VU
VU
8-12 kg
Weight
50-70 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Black fur with a lighter face and underbelly
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally larger than females.
- Lifespan
- 20-25 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 160 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-4 years
- Breeding Season
- Year-round, with peaks depending on local conditions
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown, but considered to be in the thousands
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to logging and agricultural expansion. Additionally, hunting for bushmeat poses a risk to their populations.
- Predators
- Leopards, large birds of prey, and snakes are known predators of the Black Mangabey.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They use vocalizations to alert the group of potential threats and can also flee to the safety of trees.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon