Fauna
Mammal

Patas Monkey

Erythrocebus patas

Also known as Hussar Monkey, Military Monkey, Red Guenon

Patas monkeys are the fleetest primates on Earth, reaching sprinting speeds of up to 55 km/h across open savannas on their long, greyhound-like limbs. Troops live in complex, female-led societies where a single resident adult male stays on the periphery to act as a lookout against incoming predators. When danger approaches, the male produces noisy distraction displays, allowing mothers and infants to scatter silently into tall grass.

Fastest PrimateSavannaGround-Dwelling
Patas Monkey reference1 / 7
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Near ThreatenedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNear ThreatenedRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAcacia Gum, Grasshoppers, Desert Date Fruit
Predators
  • Leopard
  • Cheetah
  • Martial Eagle
ThreatsHabitat loss from pastoral expansion, hunting for bushmeat, crop raiding retaliation
HabitatsSavannas, semi-arid grasslands, shrublands, open acacia woodlands
Life span15–20 years in the wild
Classification
  1. OrderPrimates
  2. FamilyCercopithecidae
  3. GenusErythrocebus
  4. SpeciesErythrocebus patas
Range & activity
Native Introduced

Native range in olive; established introduced range in rust.

Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Capable of inflicting deep bites if cornered or harassed; observe quietly from a respectful distance.
Why it is dangerous
Adults, particularly large males, have sharp canine teeth capable of inflicting severe puncture wounds when defending themselves.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognized by long slender limbs, reddish-russet fur, and a contrasting white mustache below a dark facial mask.
What to do
Never corner, approach on foot, or tempt with food; back away steadily if a monkey bares its teeth.
What to notice
Look for tall, slender monkeys foraging on the ground in open acacia scrub and semi-desert bushland.
Support conservation
Avoid disrupting foraging movements; let troops cross roads and grasslands without pursuit.
Responsible observation
  • Observation Distance: Maintain at least 20 meters of clearance, especially around mothers with clinging infants.
  • Vehicle Viewing: Stay inside safari vehicles when viewing troops, as sudden movements cause immediate flight.
Related species
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Emerald Kingdom

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