Tana River Mangabey

Tana River Mangabey
🖊️Animals Facts
The Tana River Mangabey (Cercocebus galeritus) is a rare, medium-sized primate endemic to the Tana River region of southeastern Kenya. It is one of Africa's most endangered monkeys, primarily found in the fragmented riverine forests along the lower Tana River. Characterized by a distinctive light-grey or brownish coat, these mangabeys have white underparts and a tuft of white fur on their heads, with dark faces and long tails, which help them balance while foraging in the trees.
Living in small social groups, Tana River mangabeys are primarily frugivorous but also feed on seeds, leaves, and insects. Their diet is highly seasonal, depending on the availability of fruit in their forest habitat. The species is diurnal, spending most of its time in trees, though they will descend to the ground to forage when needed.
The Tana River mangabey's habitat is under serious threat from deforestation, human encroachment, and agriculture, which has caused the fragmentation of the forests along the Tana River. Conservation efforts have been implemented, but the species remains critically endangered due to habitat loss. The mangabey plays a vital role in its ecosystem, contributing to seed dispersal, which helps maintain the biodiversity of the forests.