Patas Monkey

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The Patas Monkey (Erythrocebus patas) is a ground-dwelling monkey distributed over West Africa. It is the only species classified in the genus Erythrocebus. Patas monkeys avoid woodlands and live in treeless savanna and semi-deserts. The Patas Monkey grows to 85 cm in length, excluding the tail, which measures 75 cm. Reaching speeds of 50 km/h, it is the fastest runner among the primates.

This monkey lives in groups of about twelve individuals. An older female has the command of the group, which contains just one pubescent male. The monkeys feed on insects, seeds and tubers.

There are two subspecies: the western Erythrocebus patas patas (Common Patas) and the eastern Erythrocebus patas pyrrhonotus (Nisnas). The Nisnas has a white nose, while the nose of the Common Patas Monkey is black.

References

• Butynski et al (2000). [Erythrocebus patas]. 2006 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. Retrieved on 12 May 2006.

External links

• [Primate Info Net Erythrocebus Factsheets]

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