PATAS MONKEY
Erythrocebus patas
DESCRIPTION
Patas Monkey (Erythrocebus patas) is also known as the Hussar Monkey due to its distinctive coloration and long limbs. This species is characterized by its reddish-brown fur, white whiskers, and a long, slender body, making it one of the fastest primates on land. Patas Monkeys are primarily terrestrial and are known for their unique social structure and behavior, often seen foraging in open savanna habitats.
FUN FACTS
- Patas Monkeys are the fastest primates on land, capable of running at speeds up to 55 km/h
- They have a unique vocalization system, using a variety of calls to communicate with each other, especially when alerting the group to potential dangers
QUICK INFO
Lifespan15-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
Average Weight8-13 kg
Average Length50-75 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuregroup — they typically live in groups led by a dominant female, with males often leaving the group upon reaching maturity.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round, with peaks depending on local conditions
- Habitat
- Patas Monkeys inhabit open savannas and grasslands, often favoring areas with scattered trees. They are well-adapted to dry environments and can be found in regions with limited water sources.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Grassland
- Native Range
- Patas Monkeys are native to West and East Africa, ranging from Senegal to Ethiopia.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Senegal, Gambia, Mali, Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, Sudan, Ethiopia
- Diet
- Patas Monkeys primarily eat fruits, seeds, and leaves, but they also consume insects and other small invertebrates. Their diet is diverse, allowing them to adapt to varying food availability in their habitat.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- fruits, seeds, leaves
- Social Structure
- group — they typically live in groups led by a dominant female, with males often leaving the group upon reaching maturity.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-30
- Territorial
- 1
LC
VU
8-13 kg
Weight
50-75 cm
Length
- Coloration
- reddish-brown fur with white facial 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 local conditions
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Patas Monkeys is currently stable, but they face threats from habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 50,000-100,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to agriculture and human encroachment. They are also hunted in some areas for bushmeat.
- Predators
- Lions, leopards, and large birds of prey are known to prey on Patas Monkeys.
- Defense Mechanisms
- Patas Monkeys use their speed and agility to escape predators, often fleeing into trees or open areas.
- Found in Zoos
- Common