BLUE MONKEY
Cercopithecus mitis
DESCRIPTION
The Blue Monkey, also known as the diademed monkey, is a medium-sized primate native to Central and East Africa. It is characterized by its blue-grey fur and distinctive facial markings.
FUN FACTS
- Blue Monkeys are known for their expressive faces and vocalizations | They have a unique social structure with strong bonds between group members | Their diet can include up to 50 different types of fruits
QUICK INFO
Lifespan15-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
Average Weight5-10 kg
Average Length50-70 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureThey live in groups, typically consisting of 10-30 individuals led by a dominant male.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round, with peaks depending on the region
- Habitat
- They inhabit a variety of forest types, including montane and tropical rainforests. Blue Monkeys are often found in both primary and secondary forests.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Montane Forest
- Native Range
- They are found in the forests of Central and East Africa, including countries like Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi
- Diet
- Blue Monkeys primarily eat fruits, leaves, and flowers, but they also consume insects and small animals. Their diet varies seasonally based on food availability.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- Fruits and leaves
- Social Structure
- They live in groups, typically consisting of 10-30 individuals led by a dominant male.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 10-30
- Territorial
- 1
VU
VU
5-10 kg
Weight
50-70 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Blue-grey fur with a lighter face and dark markings.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally larger than females.
- Lifespan
- 15-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 165 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-4 years
- Breeding Season
- Year-round, with peaks depending on the region
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to logging and agriculture, as well as hunting in some areas.
- Predators
- Leopards, large birds of prey
- Defense Mechanisms
- They use vocalizations to alert others of danger and can flee to the treetops for safety.
- Found in Zoos
- Common