mammal · GBIF taxon 2436548
Patas Monkey
Erythrocebus patasAlso known as Hussar Monkey, Military Monkey, Red Dirt Monkey
Patas monkeys are the fastest runners among primates, capable of reaching speeds of 55 kilometers per hour across the open savanna. These highly terrestrial monkeys live in female-led groups where a single adult male acts as a sentinel, scanning the horizon for predators from termite mounds or acacia trees. When threatened, they rely on their remarkable speed and camouflage in the tall grass rather than climbing trees.
TerrestrialFast-runningDiurnal
- diet
- Omnivorous (acacia gum, insects, seeds, and tubers)
- family
- Cercopithecidae
- threats
- Habitat loss, hunting for bushmeat, and agricultural expansion
- life Span
- 15 to 20 years in the wild
NT
Can deliver a painful bite if cornered; maintain a respectful distance at all times.
- Keep your distance: Avoid approaching troops on foot, as males will aggressively defend their group.
- Watch the sentinels: Look for a lone male perched high on a termite mound or acacia tree scanning the area.
- Secure food items: Keep food and trash sealed to prevent attracting monkeys to campsites or vehicles.