De Brazza’s monkey

The riverine and swamp forests of central Africa are the only places where the De Brazza's monkey (Cercopithecus neglectus), an Old-World monkey, may be found. One of the most common arboreal African primates, it is the largest species of the guenon genus. Its orange diadem and white beard set it apart from other cercopithecus monkeys, in addition to size. The species is little known in all of its habitats because of its cryptic appearance, although it has demonstrated distinctive characteristics like pair-bonding and aggressive behaviour toward other guenons.

The most sexually dimorphic species of guenon is the De Brazza's monkey; males weigh about 7 kilograms, while females weigh about 4 kilograms. Adults have black limbs, a white tail, and grey agouti fur with a reddish-brown back. Cheek pouches are present in both sexes and are used to store food while foraging. While girls have a crimson perianal region and discernible nipples, males have a distinct blue scrotum. Infants are a uniform brown agouti with a very little beard, while juveniles lack the darker colours on the extremities that are distinctive of adults but retain the white stripes and red rump. It may be distinguished from other guenons by its white beard and muzzle, an orange crescent on its forehead, and white stripes on its thighs.

Behaviour of De Brazza’s monkey

It is believed that the longevity of the De Brazza's monkey is comparable to that of other Cercopithecus species, which can live up to 22 years in the wild and 30 years in captivity. The De Brazza's monkey is difficult to observe in the field due to its enigmatic nature. For a gueon, the average troop size ranges from 2 to 10 individuals.

The De Brazza's monkeys reside in single-male, multiple-female groups in Eastern Africa (specifically, Uganda). Males who are alone do not form bachelor groups, but they may periodically overthrow the dominant man to gain access to the women.

Vocalisations

Booming noises are used in male De Brazza's monkey communication. These are typically heard in the early morning when the male shouts out to mark his territory. However, he may also use this sound to reunite the group if they have split up. Males will make an alarm call when they are being assaulted by predators. Male crowned eagles will briefly bark before attacking the eagle to frighten it off. Females have also been seen to growl and make alarm sounds when they see humans. Other than when feeding or resting, female vocalisations are kept to modest croaks. Young children and infants will scream inconsolably if they are separated from their moms or the group.

De Brazza’s Monkey Reproduction

Male De Brazza's monkeys do not mature sexually until closer to 6 years of age, while females do so around the age of 5. The majority of young males will depart from their natal group before they are fully grown. Females can enter estrous at periods of increased food availability, although the breeding season only lasts from February to March. An infant stays close to its mother for the first year of life until being weaned. Gestation lasts between 5 and 6 months. Typically, females only have one child at a time, though twins have sporadically been born.

The Diet of De Brazza's Monkey

When fruits are available, they make up the majority of De Brazza's monkey's diet together with herbaceous plants from the forest floor. When basic food supplies are in short supply, they add insects, seeds, and other food sources to their diet.

Where in Uganda can I find De Brazzer's monkey?

The De Brazza's monkey can be found in Uganda's Semuliki and Mt. Elgon National Parks close to rivers and wetlands.