Monkey Species · Equatorial Africa
Black-and-White Colobus
The black-and-white colobus (genus Colobus, e.g.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The black-and-white colobus (genus Colobus, e.g. the mantled guereza) is a striking African leaf-eating monkey with a flowing white mantle and tail. Highly arboreal, it has a specialised stomach for digesting leaves and the common species are Least Concern.
Black-and-White Colobus: At a Glance
| Origin | Equatorial Africa |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium (8–14 kg) |
| Typical weight | 8–14 kg; long white-tipped tail |
| Lifespan | 20–30 years (wild) |
| Coat & markings | Glossy black body with a long white mantle, face fringe and tail |
| Temperament | Arboreal, leaf-eating, graceful |
| Conservation note | Common species Least Concern (IUCN); CITES Appendix II — canopy specialists threatened locally by deforestation and historic pelt hunting |
History & Origins
Colobus monkeys live high in African rainforest canopies, leaping between trees with their long fur streaming. 'Colobus' means 'docked', referring to their reduced thumbs. Their leaf-fermenting stomachs let them exploit foliage other monkeys cannot. Historically hunted for their dramatic pelts, they remain threatened locally by habitat loss.
Black-and-White Colobus Fun Facts
- Colobus monkeys have only a tiny thumb — their name means 'docked'.
- They digest leaves in a chambered, fermenting stomach.
- Newborns are pure white, darkening as they grow.
- Their long mantle acts like a parachute when they leap.
Black-and-White Colobus Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Habitat loss (wild)
Deforestation for agriculture, logging and development removes the food trees and connected canopy that wild monkeys depend on.
Care: Support habitat protection and deforestation-free supply chains in range countries rather than wildlife tourism that disturbs troops.
Bushmeat hunting
Hunting and snaring for meat and traditional medicine removes adults faster than slow-breeding primate populations can recover.
Care: Support anti-poaching patrols, snare-removal teams and alternative-livelihood programmes in range countries.
Forest fragmentation
Isolated forest patches cannot support wide-ranging troops, leading to local extinctions and inbreeding.
Care: Support reforestation and protected-corridor projects in the species' range.
Monkeys belong in the wild
Monkeys are intelligent, social primates — not pets. The illegal pet trade and habitat loss threaten species from marmosets to macaques. WARN funds anti-trafficking and habitat work for primates in our partner countries.
