Blue Monkey
Cercopithecus mitis
Blue Monkey dwells in Central and East African forests, eating fruits and insects.
| Scientific name | Cercopithecus mitis |
|---|---|
| Swahili name | Kima cha samawi |
| Conservation status | Least Concern |
| Class | Mammalia |
| Order | Primates |
| Family | Cercopithecidae |
How to identify
Blue monkeys are named for their distinctive grey-blue fur and white throat patch. They are agile arboreal primates living in Central and East African forests, typically found in groups. The blue monkey gets its name from its unique blue-grey coloring.
Habitat
Central and East African forests
Diet
Omnivore - fruits, leaves, insects
Where it lives
Found in montane forests of central and eastern Africa, from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo to parts of Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa.
How to spot it
Look in forest canopy, particularly in fruiting trees. Early morning and late afternoon most active. Listen for alarm calls. Move slowly and quietly.
Photography tips
Use 200-400mm telephoto lens. Shoot from below to capture canopy position. Fast shutter for movement. Overcast days provide soft light. Focus on facial features.
Threats
Habitat loss and fragmentation, forest clearing, human disturbance, limited range
Similar species
Samango monkey (larger, different facial markings), Sykes monkey (different coloration), Green monkey (more terrestrial)
