#roloway monkey

Roloway monkey (Cercopithecus diana roloway)

West Africa's roloway monkey is near extinction mainly due to bushmeat hunting.

(Photo: Sebastien Bozon/Getty Images)

Diana Monkey/Diana Guenon (Cercopithecus diana) -

There are two subspecies of Diana Monkey that in 2008 were acknowledged as their own species.  The Dryas Monkey (critically endangered) and Roloway Monkey (endangered) are both very closely related to the Diana Monkey.  All of them have similar markings and small white beards, although the length varies between species.

These monkeys, or guenon, are a medium sized Old World monkey, found in West and Central Africa.  They can grow up to about 10 lbs with a tail much longer than its body.  This long tail is perfect for agility and balance in its treetop homes. They are diurnal, and forage on fruit, tender leaves, seeds, invertebrates and flowers.  They almost never leave the trees.  Their predators eagles, leopards, and chimps.

They are extremely social, and can live in mixed species troops of up to 30 individuals, with one male.  Their socialization relies heavily on vocalization and body language.  Healthy females can produce 2 babies every year.