Fauna
Mammal

De Brazza's Monkey

Cercopithecus neglectus

Also known as Swamp Monkey

De Brazza's monkeys are secretive forest guenons renowned for their striking facial markings, featuring a bright orange crescent brow and an immaculate white beard. Unlike many social primates that travel in large, noisy troops, they often live in small family groups or monogamous pairs, freezing completely motionless for hours when threatened. Their cryptic habits and fondness for dense swamp canopies allow them to thrive along waterways across central Africa while remaining rarely seen.

PrimateArborealFrugivore
De Brazza's Monkey reference1 / 3
(c) Matt Muir, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Matt Muir · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyFicus figs, Tree seeds, Insects
Predators
  • Crowned Eagle
  • Leopard
  • African Rock Python
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation from logging, agricultural clearance, and the bushmeat trade
HabitatsRiverine forests, swamp forests, and dense lowland tropical rainforests
Life span20–30 years
Classification
  1. OrderPrimates
  2. FamilyCercopithecidae
  3. GenusCercopithecus
  4. SpeciesCercopithecus neglectus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskModerate
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is moderate
Can deliver a sharp defensive bite if cornered; observe from a respectful distance.
Why it is dangerous
Possesses sharp canine teeth capable of inflicting deep puncture wounds and lacerations if cornered or handled.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for the distinctive orange crescent brow band and prominent white beard on a grey-green body.
What to do
Never corner or attempt to touch wild monkeys; give them space to retreat into the canopy.
Responsible observation
  • Listening for Calls: Tune in for deep, booming alarm calls echoing across river bends early in the morning.
  • Scanning Waterways: Use binoculars along dense riverbanks where individuals forage low in the vegetation.
  • Maintaining Distance: Keep quiet and stay several meters back to prevent triggering their defensive freezing reflex.
Related species
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Emerald Kingdom

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